How can reframing improve your relationships and life? Take a good look at the picture above. Things are not always as they appear. Reframing your thinking requires you to consider new possibilities for yourself, others and situations. For example, have you ever assumed someone felt a certain way about you, only to find out that your assumption was not accurate, or you decided not to try something new because you were afraid you might fail?
Your ability to reframe your thinking can be a valuable tool in these types of situations. If you find yourself questioning a situation or feeling held back from doing something, take a moment and notice your thoughts and feelings so that you don’t react on auto pilot mode. Ask yourself, is there another possibility or way of viewing this situation that might change my perspective? Considering alternate possibilities will allow you to see life through a broader lens, will influence your thinking and perhaps even change the way you react and respond to situations in life.
Two questions to ponder:
How can I handle situations when I feel someone important in my life feels negatively towards me? Direct communication with the person may be valuable in order to inquire rather than assume.
If I don’t try something because I fear the outcome, how can I look at fear differently? Consider looking at fear and failure as an important part of the learning and growth process.
The below information may help you understand and even consider ways to reframe your thinking.
Reframing involves changing your perspective on a given situation to give it a more positive or beneficial meaning to you.
Reframing can be used to help remove limiting beliefs, to help appreciate positive moments that you might otherwise miss, or for any other negative thought you would like to change.
Our assumptions help us provide meaning to events that don’t have any inherent meaning. Even when our inner voice has something negative to say, you can seek for positive intention.
The first step in reframing your negative thoughts is to notice them. Consider keeping a journal so you can spot your unkind thought patterns.
The second step is to replace your negative thoughts with positive ones. It helps to challenge the implied assumptions behind your thoughts, so you can understand what is causing them.
I will leave you with this… You have probably hear the saying, put yourself in the other person’s shoes. Your willingness to consider another person’s point of view will lead to more productive conversations, greater understanding and stronger relationships.
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