Always Question Your Assumptions
In the Battle of Waterloo of 1815, Napoleon Bonaparte assumed the British and Prussian forces would be positioned defensively on the other side of a ridge. Due to muddy conditions, the Prussians were closer than anticipated and the British center held firm.
During the battle, Napoleon's frontal cavalry assaults, which had been successful in the past, were met with devastating artillery fire and musket volleys. Napoleon's army suffered heavy losses and ultimately lost the battle, sealing his fate.
Napoleon's past victories made him confident in his assumptions. And he did not challenge this assumption, and little was discussed in his battle plan.
Refusing to challenge own assumption is a common a mental blind spot. Questioning our assumption is difficult because we open up to the possibility that we could be wrong. And we do not like to be wrong. Being wrong means we are on the wrong path, it is a waste of time and resources. Therefore, we want to be right at all times. The irony is that being able to challenge our assumptions, admitting being wrong will lead us to be right.
Do not be afraid of being wrong in your assumptions. It is better to be wrong now than paying costly mistakes like Napoleon did. Reflect on your assumptions, why do you have such thoughts? What if the assumption is incorrect? Is there any evidence that is not aligned with your assumptions? Reflect deeply and your world view will open up.