Mission Brief 008 – Question Your Assumptions
See the Invisible Rules You’re Living By
Much of our thinking runs on autopilot. We inherit beliefs, routines, and “the way things are done” from family, culture, or past experiences — and rarely pause to ask if they’re still true or useful. Critical thinking starts with questioning those assumptions. By shining a light on these invisible rules, we open up space for better decisions, fresh solutions, and creative growth.
Fun Factoid
The “five monkeys experiment” (widely retold though debated in accuracy) illustrated how groups enforce outdated rules. Monkeys were stopped from climbing a ladder for bananas because of past punishment — even after the punishment was removed.
Why It Matters
If we don’t question assumptions, we can waste time solving the wrong problems, repeat outdated habits, or miss innovative opportunities.
Field Notes
I used to assume that everyone else was smarter, better, or had the right answer. For a long time, I stayed quiet, second-guessed myself, and let others take the lead. Eventually, I learned that wasn’t always true — people make mistakes, carry biases, and sometimes don’t have the full picture. Once I started questioning that assumption, I realized my own perspective had value too. That shift gave me the confidence to speak up, test ideas, and trust my judgment.
Actionable Item
Identify one assumption in your life (at work, in health, or relationships). Ask:
- Is it really true?
- What evidence supports it?
- What if the opposite were true?
“Unthinking respect for authority is the greatest enemy of truth.” — Albert Einstein
Reflection
What’s one “invisible rule” you’ve been following that might not actually be true anymore?
