Frames

Hi Everyone.

I am now going to discuss the topic of frames. We will learn about 13 different types of frames and the process of reframing as it applies to improving and sustaining happiness in our lives.

Frames

A frame defines and describes the boundaries of an event or experience.

It can be considered one of the ways we filter perceptions of the world based on our internal representations. They usually operate outside of conscious awareness, are habitual and automatic. They come from the beliefs we have.

We use frames to attatch meaning to an event.

We also talk about time frames eg a short time frame to achieve a task. This is perceived as more stressful than a long timeframe but is associated with more focus and motivation.

Types of Frames

Outcome Frame

Focuses on what you do want, not what you don’t want, focuses attention on achieving solutions rather than on what is not working.

Within the outcome frame not only do you look at the outcome, but at the effects of achieving the outcome –  both positive and negative, and the resources you require to reach the Outcome. Outcomes should be set for all your activities because if you haven’t then someone else may enrol you to help them in theirs.

Clearly defined outcomes provide you with a context for making decisions and assessing your behaviours. When there are no clearly defined outcomes,  accomplishment can be limited, ,you can  take on too much, get overwhelmed and not be able to achieve your desired level of happiness and success.

Outcome frames are the opposite of a problem frames. Problem frames are focused on what is wrong or needs to be fixed rather than what is sought after.

Ecology Frame

This frame checks what impact any change will have on all parts of the system to which you belong.

If you pursue an outcome without thinking about the impact on other parts of the system (e.g., body systems, family, work environment, community), then you are not working in an ecology frame. Eg for an outcome that you have at work, what is the effect on your co-workers? Are there any negative effects on you customers? Is your outcome congruent with other outcomes or plans that you have?

Evidence frame

Evidence is important in developing well formed outcomes. The aim is to ground everything in reality. By having sensory specific evidence you know when you have achieved your outcomes.

The evidence frame is part of the outcome frame. It is useful to consider it separately.

Ask yourself how will you know when you have achieved your outcome? What will you see, hear, feel or experience?

The evidence frame is a gauge to assess your progress towards your outcome.It enables you to know when you have achieved your outcome.By measuring the evidence you will know if you should take corrective action or modify outcomes or even set new ones.

As- If Frame

There are many applications for the As-If frame. It is based on acting ‘as if’’ a desired state or outcome has been achieved. It can also be ‘as if’ someone else is giving you information:

When negotiating or problem solving, you can explore other possibilities by saying, “Let’s proceed as if I agree to this demand or take your proposed course of action. What would you do for me, or what would happen as a result?”

If a key person is missing from a meeting, you may say, “Let’s act as if Sue is present. What would she suggest?”

For project planning, you may wish act as if the project has been successfully completed and then ask what steps were necessary to reach this outcome. This approach may highlight some important information that is not obvious when planning from the present.

For modeling an expert, you may choose to act as if you are that person (put yourself into second position) to gain further insights as to their thoughts and behaviours.

As-If Thinking involves thinking about something as if it has occured. “What would it be like if…”.

Contrast Frame

The contrast frame is used to seek the difference that makes a difference. If you are considering what you are doing in a certain situation ask yourself ‘How is this different from the current situation?’ or ask ‘What is the alternative?  These create choices which can be further evaluated.

Agreement Frame

In meetings or negotiations it is better to find points of agreement and build from there.

Ask yourself and others present what it is that is agreed upon. It may seem obvious but if your not sure you can bet that others are not sure either. It helps to clarify.

Backtrack Frame

You can use this frame to check agreement and understanding during and at the conclusion of a meeting. You can  update a new arrival at a meeting or restart a discussion. Backtracking requires reviewing available information and  using keywords and tonality of those who brought the information forward.

Backtracking ensures everyone has the same understanding of what was discussed and decided and helps to maintain direction towards the desired outcome.

Thats it for today, as always have a fantastic day.

Nevin