Reframing is a popular and powerful way to identify and adjust unhelpful thought patterns by changing how we interpret a situation. It helps us respond to life’s challenges more effectively and with greater clarity.
In my own experience, I can certainly attest to its value. Reframing has helped me move through difficult seasons and calm my mind around unpleasant events. It has helped me realize that sometimes what feels overwhelming is shaped largely by how I am interpreting it. Other times, the challenges are very real. It taught me to pause more often. To ask whether there might be another perspective, or whether I was only seeing part of the picture.
There was one season, however, when the power of reframing lasted only temporarily. I eventually realized that changing how I looked at the situation did not remove the challenges themselves. Reality still needed to be addressed.
That realization shifted how I think about decision-making.
Reframing is not about avoiding or ignoring challenges. It is not emotional suppression. It is not convincing ourselves something fits when it doesn’t.
Healthy reframing places stress and challenges in their proper place.
When grounded, reframing expands our options.
When misused, it can quietly become a new limiting belief that pressures us to endure instead of examine.
I see this pattern often in real estate as well. For example, a seller preparing to list a home they’ve lived in for years may tell themselves, “It’s just a house. We’re ready to move on.” That perspective helps them take action and avoid reactive pricing. But once the home hits the market, when feedback arrives or an offer comes in lower than expected, the emotional attachment resurfaces. Negotiations feel heavier than anticipated. The strategy may be sound, but the sentiment was reframed too quickly.
If you’re trying to stay positive through challenges, trying to reframe your thought patterns, ask:
Does this perspective increase clarity?
Or does it simply reduce discomfort?
If this reflection resonates, I explore the idea further in my recent video, When Reframing Stops Working. The full conversation is available on YouTube
