Did you know that our internal assumptions can have real-world, external implications? One simple negative assumption may unknowingly lead you down a path you never wanted to traverse. Whereas one simple positive assumption may unlock doors you never knew existed.Â
And these assumptions aren’t just dangerous for us, but even for our students. Here are just a few of the most prevalent assumptions we see in our field among our students, colleagues, and even in our own heads:Â
- Well, he’s just naturally talented.Â
- She won that position because she’s [pretty/popular/rich/connected].
- They’re acting up because they just don’t care about me.Â
- She must be an amazing teacher because her kids play so well.Â
- I didn’t get that [job/audition/position] because they don’t like me.Â
- Gen Z-ers are just lazy.Â
And the list goes on and on and on. The truly frightening thing about assumptions is that they are often both based in some level of truth and experience, and they are often true. We assume our auto technician knows their way around an engine… and they really do. We assume our realtor wants us to find the perfect home for us… and again, they do!
But what happens when instead of assuming the good, we default to assuming the bad? Imagine two scenarios for just a moment.Â
You are exhausted at the end of yet another long day of slightly flat renditions of Careless Whisper and the never-ending cacophony of “wait, what measure?” when Branzine, one of your section leaders, cheeks blazing and brows furrowed, storms into your office and immediately begins to launch into “I’m dropping band…”Â
Response 1:Â
Before Branzine can get another word out, you let out a knowing sigh, hand him a drop slip, and return to your paperwork, refusing to look him in the eye. You already know where this was going, and it just isn’t worth the fight…
The next day, Branzine does indeed drop. When you see him in the hallway, he won’t even look at you or say hello. The relationship seems to be permanently damaged. And you really miss having this smart, kind, musical kid in your program, but you can’t make a kid stay if they don’t want to.
Response 2:Â
Before Branzine can get another word out, you take a deep breath and say “Whoa, wait, what’s going on? You are an asset to this program. And I know how much you love playing and being a leader here with us?Â
Branzine then proceeds to tell you that his parents want him to drop band so he can take AP and IB Underwater Basket-Weaving in order to boost his GPA his senior year. You immediately call Branzine’s parents to set up an appointment to chat more about options for next year.Â
You and his parents soon come to an agreement, further solidifying your relationship with this smart, kind, musical kid, and his parents. Branzine goes on to become even more of a leader within your program and is still in contact with you today, ten years later. He has never forgotten the way you advocated for him to stay in your program all those years before.Â
Which scenario would you choose? In one, our assumptions may lead to the end of what could be a beautiful life of supporting those around us, advocating for their continued passion for music, and enriching our existing relationships. In another, we allow our exhaustion and our negative assumptions (perhaps based in prior experiences) squander any chance of support and future rapport.Â
You see, assuming the best in others naturally leads to a happier, healthier life. Bold statement? It’s true. Sure, you may have a few bumps along the way, but when we assume people like us, we move through life with a greater confidence, we emanate a new kind of warmth! Days are brighter and friendships are richer if we can just assume the good in others.Â
This week, I have a challenge for you. Before a negative assumption can leave your mind, flip it on it’s head. Try any of these assumptions on for size. See how they can transform your classroom, your teaching, your relationships, and your life.
- Assume they like your class.Â
- Assume your administration appreciates and values you.
- Assume your colleagues actually understand what an asset you are to your school and your community.Â
- Assume that perplexing look is one of wonder, not one of disdain.Â
- Assume your in-laws mean well after all.
- Assume the somewhat critical comment from your mentor stems from their belief in your tremendous potential.Â
- Assume your students want to make great music.Â
 What will you assume today?Â
Ammerman is the author of the Music Teacher’s Guide series, with a brand new book on Classroom Management out this month! Dr. A is also the Director of the Master of Music in Music Education for Practicing Educators at the University of Tennessee where we bring an “unapologetically teacher-centered approach” to our in-demand, online master’s program!
