Reframing Thoughts

Every day and in every interaction we work to understand the world around us.  That often leads individuals to reach conclusions that may, or may not, be accurate.  However, in our minds, we are certain that we know the truth.  A valuable skill to learn is how to reframe our thoughts.

One of the easiest ways to reframe our thoughts is to simply start with the statement, “The story I am telling myself is…” and then continuing with what you are thinking.  Acknowledging that this is a story you are telling yourself opens up the reality that there are other possible stories.  It might even be possible that you will be able to recognize and identify some of those other possible stories. 

Another strategy is to work on accepting your thoughts and feelings and not being judgmental of them.  If you struggle with battling various thoughts or feelings and tend to fight with them in your mind instead of accepting that feelings change and thoughts will come and go, perhaps the strategy that might be useful for you is adding “And that’s ok” to the end of your negative self-statements.  For example, “I am a mess” becomes “I am a mess and that’s ok.”  Giving yourself the freedom and space to be and feel how you really feel in that moment can take away part of the burden of internal fighting which can be at play.

Reframing your thoughts doesn’t change the circumstance, but it might change the impact that it has on you.