Separate facts, predictions and interpretations · S9.17

Check the story you tell about an interaction

You are explaining an exchange in a way that assumes another person's motives.

Everyday practice

Try these steps

1. Write what was said or done, separating it from your explanation of why.
2. List what you do not know and one other plausible explanation, without declaring it true.
3. Choose whether to ask a clarifying question, wait for more information, or act on the facts already available.

An example

They ended the call quickly. I do not know why; I can ask whether we should choose another time.

Reflect

Did the revised account preserve facts and uncertainty?

Next time

Update the account when you have evidence, without requiring a positive interpretation.