Today, I’d like to talk about how to avoid the dangers of making assumptions. There’s a useful model developed by Chris Argyris, author of Overcoming Organizational Defenses. His concept, called the Ladder of Inference, helps explain how assumptions influence our decisions and actions.
At the base of this model lies Common Reality — a shared reality based on facts that most people can agree on. These are objective, irrefutable facts.
However, our brains naturally filter this reality. Due to our cognitive limitations, we only select certain bits of information and interpret them based on our assumptions.
Our assumptions shape our beliefs, which then drive our actions.
For example, before the lockdown, many organisations believed that remote working was impossible for their teams. However, during lockdown, businesses quickly realised that video conferencing tools like Zoom enabled effective collaboration.
By challenging assumptions, businesses realised remote work could actually boost productivity. Similarly, in training delivery, we once believed that face-to-face sessions were far superior. But by rethinking our methods, we’ve discovered that online training can be equally — if not more — engaging when delivered with the right techniques.
By questioning assumptions and adjusting beliefs, we can take new actions that lead to better results.
When you notice questionable decisions or surprising behaviours, pause and reflect:
✅ What reality are they seeing?
✅ What assumptions are they making?
✅ What beliefs are driving their actions?
By exploring these questions, you can identify flawed thinking patterns, challenge assumptions, and create better solutions.
To improve your decision-making, always question your assumptions. By staying curious, you’ll unlock new possibilities and achieve better outcomes.
You can watch more of our short videos here.
With best regards,
David Klaasen
Talent4Performance help business leaders clarify complexity. We inspire people and drive continuous performance improvement, so they can convert thinking into action and results.
©David Klaasen – 2025
All journeys start with a first step. Take yours today.
Identify your priorities by completing the Clarity Matrix™ Scorecard, or just get in touch. We are happy to arrange an informal chat. This will help you clarify your needs and how we may be able to help you achieve your strategic objectives.
Here are a few links you may find interesting:
