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Several days ago I came across a posting on Linkedin by DR. Ahmad Syamil, that had the following riddle:

Does the answer seem straightforward to you? 

Some people immediately say "none", because he used up all six eggs (broke two, cooked two, ate two).

Another group of people, also immediately say "four", because he only used two eggs (broke, cooked, and ate the two eggs).

Which answer is correct?

Are we sure we have all the data needed to answer correctly?

The answer depends on the initial intention of the riddle-maker. He did not specify what type of eggs he has - are they all raw unbroken eggs, or are some already ready to be consumed? Are they all in good shape, or are some already broken, ready to be cooked? So the answer ranges from zero eggs (applies when the initial condition of the six eggs are all already distributed into raw, broken, and cooked) and four eggs (applies when the initial condition of the six eggs are all raw eggs).

When we first saw the riddle, we already made several assumptions unconsciously: First of all, we think it is a riddle, so the statement must be enough for a definite answer. Next, we already assume that this is a trick riddle, because 94% of the people failed.

In other words, we already assume that the answer of this riddle is within our knowledge domain .

After we read the thought provoking question of "are we sure?" we might begin to realize that we have assumed some things. The time it takes for the revelation to show up in our mind will vary, depending on how trained we are in the habit of checking our own train of thoughts. 

This is why we must develop a habit of asking questions. Through asking, we are able to listen. Through listening, we are able to reflect and gain new understanding. In other words, if we are to assume something, we should assume that everything is outside our knowledge domain. That way, we will readily search for inputs and thorough understanding of the situation - where we are, and where we want to be. A thorough understanding of the situation will enable us to map out an accurate direction of actions to get to where we want to be.

(Header Photo by Siora Photography on Unsplash)