Life doesn’t always present itself in black and white—there are many shades of grey, and how we frame our experiences can determine how we move forward. As a qualified career development professional (cdp), I often see how limiting beliefs and self-talk can create roadblocks. But reframing isn’t about simply flipping “negative” thinking to “positive” thinking.
That can feel overly simplistic or even dismissive, especially when optimism feels out of reach. Instead, reframing is about exploring possibilities, embracing hope, and finding courage to move forward.
Why Reframing Matters
Reframing helps us shift our mindset by altering the way we perceive challenges. It doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties or pretending everything is perfect—it’s about looking at the same situation with fresh eyes, rooted in hope or courage.
For instance, instead of getting stuck in “I can’t,” reframing might look like:
“What if I could?”
“What’s one small way I could try?”
“What strengths do I have that might help?”
This process opens the door to curiosity and exploration, even when optimism feels far away. It’s about keeping possibilities alive.
10 Powerful Coaching Questions for Reframing
Here are 10 reframing coaching questions that can help shift perspectives:
1. What evidence do you have that this thought is true? Could there be another perspective?
2. If your best friend were in this situation, what advice would you give them?
3. What would change if you replaced “I can’t” with “I can try”?
4. What small step could you take today to challenge this belief?
5. What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?
6. How would you describe this situation if you focused on the opportunities instead of the challenges?
7. What is one strength or resource you already have that can help you here?
8. What lesson or growth could come from this experience?
9. What would a future version of yourself, who has overcome this, say to you now?
10. If this thought were written on a sign, what empowering statement could you replace it with?
🫖 Are these questions not quite your cup of tea?
Why not give one of the ones listed below a try?
10 Playful Questions to Make Reframing Fun
Sometimes, a lighthearted approach can unlock creativity and help us see things differently. Here are 10 fun reframing questions:
1. If your negative thought were a grumpy cartoon character, how would you rewrite their dialogue to make them cheerful?
2. Imagine you’re wearing “I can’t” glasses. What would the world look like if you swapped them for “I can” glasses?
3. If this thought were a flavour of ice cream, what would it be called—and how could you turn it into your favourite flavour?
4. What would your inner superhero say to defeat this negative thought?
5. If this thought was a line in a song, how could you remix it into a motivational anthem?
6. What would a comedian say to turn this thought into a punchline that makes you laugh?
7. If your negative thought were a cloud, how would you imagine blowing it away to reveal sunshine?
8. What magical spell could you cast to transform this thought into one that energizes you?
9. If you were narrating this situation as a success story, what would the next chapter sound like?
10. Imagine giving this thought a funny name—what would it be? Now, how could you shrink it to the size of a mouse?
Reframing as a Skill for Hope and Courage
Reframing is not about toxic positivity; it’s about embracing the idea that growth can coexist with struggle. It’s holding space for hope and possibilities when the path forward isn’t clear. Reframing can give you the courage to take a small step when optimism feels too far away.
What reframing teaches us is that we’re never stuck. With the right question, a spark of curiosity, and a shift in perspective, we can find new ways to move forward.
How do you use reframing in your work or life? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Jenn Barfield - Holistic Career Development Coaching 