The framestorming method

I want to teach you a technique for dealing with difficult or stressful situations similar to brainstorming but different in a powerful way. 

Typically, when you brainstorm, you try to solve a problem or develop new ideas by thinking from the perspective of “having a problem.” You are working from a negative mindset. A more helpful method is called a “Framestorm,” where you reframe or reinterpret the situation from a positive mindset.

Using this technique to consider your options for dealing with the issue can radically transform your perception of the situation and make it feel much more manageable.

Here are a few questions to ask yourself before you begin:

• “What is my current framing of the situation/person?”

• “Which emotional effects does this create in me?”

• “Does it make me more resourceful?” or “Is that helping me get closer to my goal?” (Yes/No)

• “If I continue to give life to this framing, where will that take me? Which reality will I create?”

• “Do I want that scenario to become my reality” (Yes/No)

If two No’s are stated above, it is time to begin the Framestorm process.

Here is an example for an argument with a friend:

• Current framing: Argument = A threat

• Emotional effects: stress, sadness, anger

• Is this more resourceful? No!

• Current framing will lead to resisting seeing each other’s side, resentfulness, being defensive or closed off, and it could ruin the friendship altogether.

• Do I want that reality? No!

Time for a Framestorm Session!

•Which benefits/positive side effects does the situation give to me/my friends/family/classmates?

            Ex. We will get to know each other better, and we will become closer.

•How could I frame the situation so that I would not want to miss out on it?

            Ex. If we don’t deal with the situation, we might not be friends anymore. I love this friendship and want to keep it.

•How would a wise or successful person (say, a role model of yours) view the situation?   

Ex. Conflict resolution and communication are key skills for life. The is the perfect opportunity to learn and improve my abilities in this area.

•If I go to the world of (say) sports: how might a professional X-­‐player view such a situation?

Ex. Even when things get difficult, at the end of the day, we are a team. We need to learn to work together no matter what our differences are. We are stronger when we work together! 

•Which of my skills are strengthened through the situation?

    Ex. I will learn to become a better listener and better friend.

•No matter what happens in the days to come, what can I choose to do/learn/strengthen that will impact my life constructively from now onwards?

Ex. I will be prepared to handle conflict in a constructive way when I go to college or enter the work field.

 •What would I lose/miss out on if this situation/relationship wasn’t in my life?

  Ex. I would miss this friendship.

Rather than feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or hopeless about what is happening, this approach helps you view the challenge from a place of being inspired to find a solution. When you use a positive mindset, you are more likely to solve the problem and come out the other end happier and wiser.

So, the next time you have to deal with a challenge, skip the heavy negative brainstorm session, and try a positive Framestorm instead!

[Anette Prehn, 2013, Framestorm]