5-Star CPR: Consciously Practice Reframing
Reframing doesn't change the facts. It changes our perspective and the energy we bring to what comes next. It isn't about staying positive; it's about staying open to possibility.
What is reframing?
Simple answer
Reframing doesn't change what happened. It helps us change what we do with what happened.
Deeper understanding
Reframe your words
| Instead of | Try |
|---|---|
| "I should tell him how I feel." | "It could be good for both of us if I tell him how I feel." |
| "I'm struggling." | "I'm facing a challenge." |
| "I can't do it." | "I haven't been able to do it yet." |
| "Life is really hard." | "Life has been really hard, and I'm finding my way." |
| "Why does this always happen to me?" | "What can I do differently?" |
Ask yourself: What is my intention? Am I speaking and acting in a way that reflects it?
Flip the Script
Turn problems into possibilities, and possibilities into action.
- Make it worse: write five things you could do that would make a difficult situation worse.
- Flip the script: write the opposite of each one. These are five ways to make it better.
- Take action: choose one you can do today.
For a relationship: list what you no longer want to experience, flip each into what you do want, then decide what you can do or communicate to create it.
What we focus on shapes what we see, how we feel and what we do. When we name what we want instead of what we don't, we give ourselves direction.
If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, call or text 988 (US) or text HOME to 741741. If someone is in immediate danger, call 911. More resources
This resource is educational and not a substitute for medical or mental health care. © Thrive Education · jennythrasher.com