Reframing: The Power of Shifting the Lens
Reframing isn’t just a clever mental hack—it’s a master key to resolving conflict, driving progress, and shaping outcomes. It’s about taking what’s in front of you, flipping the angle, and presenting it in a way that moves people. Imagine holding a kaleidoscope: the pieces stay the same, but twist it slightly, and the pattern changes entirely. That’s reframing in action.
As a lawyer and mediator, reframing is my secret weapon. In the courtroom, it’s how I present evidence, subtly adjusting the lens so the jury sees the story I want to tell. In mediation, it’s how I take emotionally charged disputes and pivot the discussion toward common ground. The goal isn’t manipulation—it’s resolution. By guiding others to see the same facts through a different lens, I help them move beyond their own barriers.
Here’s an example: a client believes their business partner has acted out of greed, while the partner feels misunderstood. If I frame this as “a chance to rebuild trust and establish clear expectations,” the tone of the conversation shifts entirely. It’s no longer about accusations; it’s about opportunities. The facts haven’t changed, but the focus has—and with it, the possibilities for resolution.
Reframing also helps in everyday life. Stuck in traffic? Instead of fuming, think of it as a rare chance to catch up on your favorite podcast or reflect on your day. Missed a big opportunity? Reframe it as a lesson learned—fuel for the next big win. It’s not about denying reality; it’s about deciding which part of it you’ll let drive the narrative.
In mediation, I might use reframing to transform a heated debate over damages into a question of shared priorities. “How can we ensure both sides walk away feeling respected?” suddenly shifts the energy in the room. People stop talking past each other and start listening.
Here’s the real beauty: reframing works because it meets people where they are, without forcing them to agree. It’s not about changing their minds—it’s about expanding their view. And once they see the bigger picture, solutions that once felt impossible come into focus.
Reframing isn’t magic, but it sure feels like it. When you shift the lens, you don’t just change the way people see a problem; you change how they feel about it. And that shift? It’s where progress begins.
Mitch Jackson | links