A Quiet Lesson on Assumptions and Respect

One of the quiet mistakes we make as adults and as leaders is assuming “they already knew”—when in truth, we never took the time to understand what really happened. Assumptions are easy; understanding takes effort. And when assumptions are spoken out loud without context, they can turn into unfair judgments.


Today reminded me that knowing part of a story does not mean knowing the whole story. Arriving at a moment and concluding someone was “late” without knowing the work that started hours before, the responsibilities carried, or the waiting that already happened, is not leadership—it’s haste. It overlooks reality and dismisses effort.


Respect is not automatic just because someone holds a title. Respect is earned through communication, awareness, and manners. Especially when we stand at the same level. Especially when we are all managers. Leadership does not mean correcting others publicly, interrupting a process without permission, or projecting annoyance instead of curiosity. Leadership means asking first, clarifying gently, and choosing dignity—for ourselves and for others.


If there was a need to borrow supervisors, the respectful way would have been simple: “May I speak to them for a moment?”

If there was confusion about timing, the human way would have been: “Can I clarify something?”


Because once words are spoken in front of a team, they don’t only address one person—they shape how authority, collaboration, and mutual respect are modeled.


I am not offended by correction; I am mindful of how it is delivered. I do not reject accountability; I reject assumptions. I work not for one venue, but for a group. My role moves, adapts, and carries responsibilities that are not always visible at first glance. And that is why communication matters more than ego.


Today was a reminder: before judging, ask. Before assuming, observe. Before speaking, understand. Because professionalism is not about being right—it’s about being fair.


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