Check Your Assumptions
Check your assumptions.
I remember when I was a kid and learned what happens when we ASSUME.
It was a game in which someone had me work from the end of the word with “me” and then discovered the “U” and what makes us both when we ASSUME.
Assumptions are not usually a good thing – and it highlights poor communication.
Assumptions caused some issues in my family recently.
Family members were planning a holiday dinner at one of the relative’s houses. We confirmed that.
Assignments of what to bring and who to invite were given/delegated.
And then, what happened?
Some relatives assumed that since they received the invitation, no RSVP was needed.
Others assumed that a non-response meant we weren’t coming, while others assumed a response wasn’t necessary because “of course” we would be there; why wouldn’t we?
Plans temporarily changed and then changed back – why?
People assumed changing the mealtime by two hours was not a big deal, while others figured just going out to eat would be simple.
Not for 13 people at a restaurant for a holiday. Some things would be simple, but not when some of us had already purchased most of the food and supplies, and it would take a minimum of five phone calls to get the message to everyone.
Assumptions can cause chaos, right? Fights, resentment, and a belief the other person doesn’t respect our feelings.
Again, it reflects poor communication.
There are potential positive outcomes – assuming your car will start, assuming your pay will go into the bank on the day it is supposed to, and if your ride will show up as scheduled. We may call these assumptions or take something for granted.
However, assumptions can contribute to inaction and negative consequences.
The assumption is that if you get the medical test, it will come back with a potential diagnosis you don’t want to hear. (So many people don’t get it, so we can address things early before a diagnosis gets out of hand.)
Inconvenient and uncomfortable, yes. But don’t put it off!
Assuming a medical test is inconvenient or uncomfortable. This is why a lot of people put off their colonoscopies or mammograms. Sure, they are inconvenient and temporarily uncomfortable (no one looks forward to these tests). However, colon and breast cancer treatments are MORE inconvenient and uncomfortable.
People assume if they hire a personal trainer, that trainer will be some young and super fit person who could not possibly relate to ME – the menopausal woman who has body parts that can no longer resist gravity. So with that assumption and mindset, don’t take that step and don’t see the help of a professional.
People assume that if they hire a registered dietitian nutritionist, they will hear what NOT to eat. They assume they will be told to give up their favorite food or drink, so it is best not to talk to a professional. Or they say they want a meal plan – “tell me what to eat, exactly”– but won’t follow it. And while that may sound like an assumption (it is), it is based on experience and data. Most people who ask for a meal plan never take the step of implementing it.
People assume that the celebrity influencer has it all figured out.
People assume that if their weight is in a good place, they don’t have to worry about what is happening inside.
People assume that they will still have time to address their health. At their next birthday or at the new year, or NEXT month (because I am so busy this month).
People assume that they must accept their genetics are their future.
People assume a LOT.
Stop assuming.
Ask questions.
Take a leap.
Schedule some time to address these things.
Ask if there is a personal trainer in your age category – there probably is.
Talk with the registered dietitian nutritionist – you may find that chocolate is part of the eating pattern and vegetables don’t always take center plate.
Talk with your healthcare provider about your risk factors for health issues and chronic disease – it is often genetic and lifestyle.
Don’t wait - do it now.
And, that goal you had in your 30s? That didn’t happen. Or maybe it did, but that was more than 20 years ago.
That goal to address your health in your 40s? That maybe did happen, but it regressed as the decade progressed.
A goal to be healthier in your 50s than you have ever been in the past? You can do it.
What are you waiting for exactly?
Don’t assume that you will always have time later – act now. Assume nothing and expect everything.
Are you ready to take the next step in addressing your health and wellness goals? Let’s chat and consider joining us for our next Health Not Hype Program.
