Patrick Campbell
Assume They Didn't Know
Inspired by Patrick Campbell episode
Patrick Campbell built a company culture around assuming the most charitable interpretation. When your kid dumps their plate in the dog bowl, assume they thought the dog looked hungry, not that they're testing you.
Patrick Campbell has a hiring principle: when there's conflict, take the most charitable interpretation. Someone says something that stings? Assume they didn't know, not that they're out to get you.
Your kid dumps their plate in the dog bowl. Your brain immediately goes to "they're testing me" or "this is pure disrespect." But the charitable interpretation? They thought the dog looked hungry. Or they're tired. Or gravity seemed really interesting thirty seconds ago and science waits for no one.
You respond from "they didn't know" instead of "they're being difficult," and suddenly you're not screaming about pasta. They learn something. Nobody cries. And here's the unlock: teach them to do it too. "Why do you think your brother took your toy? What's the kindest reason?"
Charitable interpretation isn't being a pushover. It's refusing to start World War III over milk that was clearly going to spill anyway. The dog's happier. You're calmer. Everyone wins except the floor.
