Reflective Tools

Practical exercises to explore at your own pace. The exercise below focuses on the difference between an observation and an assumption.

 

What am I noticing—and what am I assuming?

Think of an everyday conversation or situation that left you unsure about someone’s response. Choose something you feel comfortable reflecting on.

 

1. What did I actually notice?

Describe what you saw or heard. Try to separate the person’s words and actions from your explanation of them.

“They gave a short answer and looked away” describes an observation. “They weren’t interested” adds an interpretation.

 

2. What meaning did I give it?

What did you assume was happening? Consider whether your expectations, mood or previous experiences influenced that reading.

 

3. What else might explain it?

Look for another plausible explanation. You do not have to decide it is the right one. The point is to recognise what you do not yet know.

 

4. What could I check?

What question might help you understand more? For example: “You went quiet just then—what was happening for you?” Leave room for an answer you did not expect.

 

What will I take from this?

Has anything shifted in how you understand the situation? What might you ask or do differently next time?

Considering another explanation does not mean dismissing harm or abandoning a boundary.

 

These resources support reflection and learning. They are not diagnostic tests, clinical assessments or safeguarding tools.