We all know the classic amusing explanation of why you should not assume, because it makes an "A* * of U and Me", but assumptions can be much more serious. An assumption can make way for hurt feelings, misconceptions, and resentments. When we make assumptions we completely de-emphasize another person's feelings for the sake of filling in the blanks that exist in our own minds.

Why do we make assumptions? Assumptions occur when we do not have a clear picture of what the other person is trying to say, or when we do not understand their actions. How can we eliminate the need to make assumptions? The answer is, by fully listening and asking questions. The average person does not "fully" listen when they are being spoken to. They are thinking of what they want to say next, what must be done, the task that they were performing before the person interrupted them, or a multitude of other things. But the fact remains, that they are not fully engaged in a conversation. I'm going to use a classic clich