Try a Different Frame Around That Picture
Try a Different Frame Around That Picture
One constant in life is movement. Change and transition are inevitable.
We all face unexpected shifts: a move, a breakup, a new job, name what you like. Some embrace these changes with optimism and poise, a quality I deeply admire. Others approach them with fear or reluctance. Why do we respond so differently to change?
Personality traits, like being risk-averse, play a role. So too do our past experiences and exposure. But I recently encountered a theory that shifts the focus entirely: What if our response to change hinges on our mindset?
When we view change as propelling us toward something new or better, we respond more positively. Conversely, when we see it as pulling us away from something familiar, we resist. Consider someone asked to relocate for a job. They can frame it as a step toward career growth or a disruption of their comfort zone. Similarly, an athlete sidelined by injury can see it as a chance to address weaknesses for a stronger next season or as a setback derailing their dreams.
How we frame life’s changes, especially those beyond our control, shapes how we show up and how rewarding life becomes. It has a dramatic impact on how we experience the quality of our lives. So, here’s my challenge: Next time change comes your way, try reframing it as a step toward growth.
This might sound like sugarcoating, but positive reframing strongly predicts resilience. “Reframing” is another term used to describe cognitive reappraisal, the ability to screen and evaluate our thoughts and replace negative ones with positive ones. It involves conscious reassessment or reinterpretation of change or adversity to find a positive perspective and something meaningful through the challenging events of one’s life.
Try viewing it through a different frame and see how it transforms your perspective and confidence.
If you find it challenging to reframe or you are feeling overwhelmed with the change in your environment, get in touch. You can reach us at info@purposeworks.co.za.
At PurposeWorks we are all about Making You and Your Work Rock. Our focus is on Organisational Health and Design, Employee Centered Culture, Leadership Development and Performance Coaching. For more information on how we can help you create a work environment that rocks, develop a great team, become an inspiring leader or unlock your personal excellence talk to us at info@purposeworks.co.za.
