I have not stopped thinking about the book, Be Where Your Feet Are, by Scott O'Neil--specifically a chapter called Assume Positive Intent (he called it API for short). I loved this chapter so much that I've been debating tattooing API in small letters on my wrist as a reminder. Below is a quick excerpt to give you the gist
“What would happen if you assumed in every interaction (meetings, phone calls, texts, social media posts and conversations) that the other person was kind, generous and loving regardless of any past experience you've with them? What if you approached each of these interactions as if they were unique events unencumbered by your mood, insecurities, or the pressure of the moment? What if you assumed positive intent from those with whom you connect no matter how many alternative and less generous assumptions were possible? Life would be better….
…We often have preconceived notions about what other people are thinking, and what their intentions are. And typically these preconceived notions are negative. More importantly, they are at best clouded and at worst wrong. And they always impact your ability to be effective."
I just love that so much. What do you think? Should I do it?
