Ground in reality
Separate what is known, assumed, felt and still unknown before choosing action.
- Describe the present without turning it into a verdict
- Separate evidence from assumption
- Create a reality inventory
Reality before direction
Good decisions require usable information. Pressure narrows attention, while missing or unreliable information makes confident plans fragile.
A reality inventory is not a judgement of your worth. It is a dated record of conditions that can change.
Use four columns
Divide a page into Known, Assumed, Felt and Unknown. Put each important statement into only one column. Evidence belongs under Known; predictions and explanations belong under Assumed.
- Work and income
- Money and obligations
- Health and energy
- Housing and transport
- Relationships and support
- Open commitments
Test one assumption
Choose the assumption with the greatest effect on your next fortnight. Write the smallest safe action that could confirm or weaken it. Complete that action before building a larger plan.
A one-page reality inventory.
Keep personal details private. Print it or store it in a location you control.