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Question your assumptions from "summary" of Think Again by Adam Grant
In the world of cognitive psychology, there's a term for what happens when we cling too tightly to our beliefs and resist conflicting evidence: cognitive entrenchment. It's a fancy way of saying that we get stuck in our ways, digging in our heels and refusing to budge. When we're entranched, we stop asking questions and start making assumptions instead. We assume that we're right and everyone else is wrong. We assume that our way of thinking is the only way. We assume that we already have all the answers. But assumptions can be dangerous. They can blind us to new information, prevent us from learning, and ultimately hold us back from reaching our full potential. So, what's the antidote to cognitive entrenchment? It's simple: question your assumptions. Instead of assuming that you're right, assume that you might be wrong. Instead of assuming that your way is the only way, consider alternative perspectives. Instead of assuming that you have all the answers, seek out new information and ask more questions. In other words, adopt a mindset of curiosity and humility. Be willing to challenge your own beliefs and open yourself up to the possibility of being wrong. When we question our assumptions, we open ourselves up to growth and learning. We become more flexible and adaptable, able to pivot and change course when necessary. We become better at handling uncertainty and complexity, more comfortable with ambiguity and nuance. And most importantly, we become better thinkers and decision-makers, able to see the world more clearly and make more informed choices. So, the next time you find yourself feeling certain about something, stop and ask yourself: "What am I assuming here?" Take a step back and consider whether your assumptions are based on solid evidence or simply entrenched beliefs. Be willing to challenge those assumptions, seek out new perspectives, and embrace the discomfort of uncertainty. It may not always be easy, but the rewards of questioning your assumptions are well worth the effort.
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