Emotional Intelligence vs. Your Thoughts: How to Distinguish Reality from Assumption
Have you ever felt anxious about a situation, only to later realize it wasn’t worth the worry? Research from Cornell University found that 80% of our daily worries are based on unrealistic assumptions. Most anxiety stems from imagined scenarios that never happen.
The ability to distinguish between real thoughts and assumptions is a core emotional intelligence skill. It helps reduce unnecessary stress and leads to more rational decision-making.
What Are Real Thoughts?
Real thoughts are grounded in measurable facts, past experiences, or concrete evidence.
مثال: “I can speak confidently in public because I’ve practiced it multiple times.”
What Are Assumptive Thoughts?
Assumptions are imagined scenarios that lack evidence and are usually driven by fear.
مثال: “What if I embarrass myself during the presentation?” — this is not based on facts but on anxiety.
How to Tell the Difference Between Real and Assumptive Thoughts
Ask yourself:
- Is there tangible evidence to support this thought?
- Is it based on personal experience or verified knowledge?
- Can its impact or likelihood be measured?
- Is it rooted in imagination or grounded in reality?
If the answers are mostly “no,” it’s likely just an unfounded assumption.
📝 Practical Exercise: Test Your Thoughts
- Write down the thoughts currently on your mind.
- Identify whether each is fact-based or assumption-based.
- Review how many assumptions may be affecting your focus or decisions.
You’ll likely find that most thoughts are assumptions that drain your energy without benefit. Focusing on real thoughts builds confidence and improves decision-making.
How Assumptions Affect Your Life
- Wasting time thinking about unreal scenarios
- Lowering self-confidence and increasing indecision
- Amplifying fears of the future without logical basis
According to Psychology Today, 90% of fear-driven assumptions never happen, yet the mind tends to exaggerate them.
How to Overcome Assumptive Thinking
- Re-evaluate every thought and look for supporting evidence
- Replace negative assumptions with positive alternatives
- Train your mind to focus on facts instead of fear
🛠 Exercise: Reframe Your Assumptions
- Write three assumptive thoughts each day
- Next to each, write an action plan based on facts
مثال:
Assumption: “I’ll fail the job interview.”
Action: “I’ll prepare common answers and rehearse with a friend.”
All Great Achievements Begin with Real Thoughts
Focusing on reality and taking action is the foundation for personal and professional success.
🧠 Control Your Thoughts. Control Your Life.
If you’re ready to develop your emotional intelligence, strengthen self-awareness, and better manage your emotions, we’re here to help.
📞 Phone: +201013394860 / +966548025656
📩 Email: [email protected]
