Ever had a friend describe their day as “chaotic” when it sounded more like a Tuesday? Or maybe you’ve caught yourself saying, “I have to do this,” when the truth is… you get to?
That’s reframing. And it’s one of the simplest, most powerful tools you’re probably already using. Just not on purpose 'yet'.
Let’s Talk NLP - No, It’s Not a Sandwich
Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) isn’t a buzzword or a gimmick. It’s a practice that taps into the way your brain processes language and meaning. In other words, it’s the user manual for your mind; the one you should have been given at birth, but instead, you got a childhood and most likely some unhelpful coping strategies.
At its core, NLP helps you understand how your internal dialogue shapes your external experience. It asks: what meaning are you giving to this situation? And is that meaning actually helping you… or just keeping you stuck?
Why Reframing Works
Reframing isn’t about pretending things are fine when they’re not. It’s about finding a different lens: one that gives you more power, not less.
Instead of “I failed,” we look at “I learned.”
Instead of “I’m broken,” we find “I adapted.”
Same facts. Different meaning. Massive shift.
Because here’s the truth: your nervous system doesn’t need more drama - it needs direction.
A Quick Story
Years ago, I caught myself saying, “I’m always the one holding everything together.” It sounded noble. Selfless, even.
But it was also heavy, exhausting, and deeply rooted in a belief that my worth was tied to 'being needed'.
Reframe: “I know how to bring stability - and I can choose when and where to offer that.”
Same strength. Different story. More freedom.
How to Start Reframing
- Catch It: Notice when your internal narrator is being a bit dramatic or defeatist.
- Question It: Ask, is this true, or just familiar? Is this helpful?
- Flip It: What else could this mean? What’s another way to see this that gives me more choice?
It’s not about sugar-coating reality. It’s about not letting pain be the only narrator in the room.
You Don’t Have to Rewrite Your Past to Reframe It
This isn’t about bypassing. It’s about choosing what story you carry forward.
Reframing doesn’t erase what happened0 - it just gives you back the pen!
And if you’ve been feeling like life handed you a script you didn’t audition for, maybe it’s time to edit the narrative. Boldly. Bravely. On your terms!!!
You don’t have to change your whole life to feel different. Sometimes, changing the way you see your life is the most radical move of all.
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Ready to try it? Start with one thought today. Then another tomorrow.
