I Thought You Knew : Confessions of a Chronic Assumer (and How You Can Stop Guessing Your Way Through Important Interactions)

We make assumptions about other people all the time, in every type of relationship. We’re often quick to rush to judgment and assume we know others’ viewpoints and expectations, what motivates them, and what upsets them. We may have no ill intentions but without taking the time to ask, reflect, and really listen, we can be totally off the mark. Besides damaging our own credibility, our assumptions about others can erode trust and wreak havoc in our public and private lives.

Ellen Patnaude, a communication coach with more than two decades of experience, reveals her insights about how and why we project our own fears and beliefs on others. Sometimes we’re simply convinced we’re right, or we’re afraid to lose face by asking questions. She bravely shares the mistakes she’s made in her own career and offers practical suggestions on how to assess and recognize when we’re making assumptions about other people - whether they’re our colleagues, friends, or family members.

When we realize we’re operating with assumptions, we can consciously choose to step back and test them out. This book gives simple, clear ideas on how to have the hard conversations that lead to clarity and greater trust. We all have the power to improve our relationships and find common ground when we’re willing to seek understanding of other people’s perspectives.