Evaluation is the process of judging or calculating the quality, importance, amount, or value of something. This definition is provided by Cambridge dictionary. The next best synonym is Assessment.
I am convinced that with a realistic picture of any situation, we are better positioned to deal with challenges and make informed decisions. However, accepting negative or uncomfortable truths can sometimes be difficult—especially when the outcomes are potentially devastating. While some may prefer a sugar-coated version of the truth, others may choose to ignore the situation altogether hoping it will resolve itself or until it becomes a full-blown problem. Yet, ignorance or avoidance rarely solve problems.
That said, the way negative news or even positive news is delivered helps with processing. Diplomacy and sensitivity go a long way in helping individuals receive and digest information effectively.
I remember receiving the news of the passing of a lady I had known for a few years. Someone approached me casually and said, “So-and-so is dead. She died today.” The bluntness of the delivery compounded my grief. Before the day ended, I was dealing with 2 things; mourning the loss of a young mother and the anger caused by the way the news was dropped on me.
Don’t get me wrong, I like to be realistic while faced with a situation.
I would rather be honest with myself, and my current position. This gives me clarity on the state of any matter. Having clarity about a situation allows for better decision-making and coping strategies.
The need for self-evaluation often arises and it is necessary that we do so with honesty. Regular self-assessment provides a clear and accurate picture of where we stand, enabling us to take realistic steps toward improvement.
A clear picture that is acknowledged enables you to be honest with your current situation.
How can we know if we are headed towards the right direction? How can we determine if we need to stop or to proceed with caution?
When you avoid or refuse to assess your situations, you hinder your progress or chances for improvement. This also causes issues like denial, procrastination, and poor judgements. All of which can have serious consequences.
For instance, some married women may remain unaware of the financial situation in their homes particularly when financial management is left entirely to their spouses. In cases where the husband is the breadwinner or income provider, and pays the bills, many women may rely on their husband’s financial judgments, and decisions. They expect full transparency without actively engaging in discussions about the state of their family financial affairs. They begin to ask questions only when things begin to shift into uncomfortable or problematic situations.
I do realize that most times, we are busy with many things. But this does not excuse us from being accountable especially in areas of major importance, such as finances. Couples should make it a habit of jointly evaluating their financial situation together, reviewing cashflows, etc.
Some women shy away from such responsibilities because they believe they lack expertise or authority. They may believe they do not have much of a say in the matter if they are not bringing any or considerable income for example. Although we may have defined roles in our homes, both partners must be equally accountable for the overall functioning of the home. If a man is bringing in 100% of the household income, yes, the woman should still be actively involved in managing the finances and be fully aware of the family’s overall financial health, expenses and investments. If the reverse is true where it is the woman bringing in the income, the same applies. In both cases, there should be mutual agreement and understanding is key.
The need for evaluation also extends to parenting. I have observed instances where fathers do not know key details about their children’s lives because the primary care falls mostly to the mothers. As parents, both parties must be actively involved in their children’s lives at every phase. Always check in, this is an important form of evaluation.
Ultimately, evaluation is crucial. We must consistently check in on ourselves, check in on each other, and check our circumstances regularly. By doing so, we gain clarity, identify areas for improvement, and take steps to ensure growth and progress.
Stay tuned for the next feature on “Moving forward with Evaluation”.