In many cases, reframing is most beneficial when directed toward a client’s blind spot—the spot where this leader is absolutely certain there is no room for change in perspective. The purpose of professional coaching is not to show anyone “the right way” in which to relate to one another, solve problems or make decisions. It is rather to provide both challenge and support and to help a client reflect on her own thought processes, identify her own distinctive strengths and competencies, and take actions that are appropriate to her own value system and aspirations.

In conclusion, there is one simple statement to be made regarding reframing; it can be of great benefit whether we are encountering a bigot on the street, seeking to unravel the mystery of a T-Shirt statement—or assisting a coaching client as they confront an elusive interpersonal or organizational issue.

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References

Adams, James (2019) Conceptual Blockbusting: A Guide to Better Ideas, (5th Ed.) New York: Basic Books.

Bandler, Richard and John Grinder (1982) Reframing: Neuro-Linguistic Programming and the Transformation of Meaning, Moab, Utah: Real People Press.

Bateson, Gregory (1979) Mind and Nature: A Necessary Unity. New York: Dutton.

Bergquist, William (2013) Collective Intelligence: Collaboration or Collusion? Library of Professional Coaching. https://libraryofprofessionalcoaching.com/concepts/organizational-theory/collective-intelligence-collaboration-or-collusion/

Clark, Charles, (2011) Brainstorming: The Dynamic New Way To Create Successful Ideas Literary Licensing, LLC

Gordon, William (1961) Synectics: The Development of Creative Capacity New York: Harper and Brothers.

Fromm, Erich (1947) Man for Himself. Routledge: London.

Kahneman, Daniel (2013) Thinking Fast and Slow. New York: Farrar, Straus and Giroux.

Knight, Kam (2012) Mind Mapping: Improve Memory, Concentration, Communication, Organization, Creativity, and Time Management, CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.