“Once you replace negative thoughts with positive ones, you’ll start having positive results.” – Willie Nelson
Is it as bad as it seems?
Reframing a problem means looking at it from a different angle or changing the way you define or approach it. This can uncover new solutions, challenge assumptions, or shift focus from obstacles to opportunities.
Here are great examples of problem reframing across different contexts, including business, personal growth, leadership, and innovation, and showing how a simple shift in framing can unlock better solutions:
1. From “Obstacle” to “Opportunity”
Original Frame:
“Our product isn’t selling because the market is too saturated.”
Reframed:
“How might we differentiate our product in a crowded market to stand out?”
Shifts from blame to innovation.
2. From “Blame” to “Shared Ownership”
Original Frame:
“The team keeps missing deadlines because they’re disorganised.”
Reframed:
“How might I better support the team in managing priorities and timelines?”
Turns judgment into leadership opportunity.
3. From “Failure” to “Learning”
Original Frame:
“My last business failed – I’m not good at this.”
Reframed:
“My last business taught me what not to do. How can I apply those lessons next time?”
Reclaims agency and forward motion.
4. From “Teaching Problem” to “Engagement Problem”
Original Frame:
“Students aren’t learning because the material is too hard.”
Reframed:
“How might we make the material more engaging and relevant to their world?”
Focuses on connection, not content volume.
5. From “Fixed Role” to “Fluid Identity”
Original Frame:
“I’m stuck in this job – I’m just not the kind of person who can switch careers.”
Reframed:
“How might I grow into a new professional identity by building on my current skills?”
Opens up growth mindset and self-reinvention.
6. From “Resource Scarcity” to “Creative Constraint”
Original Frame:
“We can’t launch this idea – we don’t have the budget.”
Reframed:
“What’s a low-cost version of this idea we can test this month?”
Encourages agile experimentation.
7. From “Problem” to “Symptom”
Original Frame:
“We keep losing good people. Our hiring process is broken.”
Reframed:
“What if high turnover is a sign of deeper cultural issues?”
Shifts focus from surface fixes to root causes.
As always, there needs to be process, so if you have a problem or a frustration, why don’t you try the following steps. You might find the problem isn’t as bad as it first seems.
1. State the Original Problem
Clearly define the problem as you currently understand it.
Example:
“Customers are not buying our new product.”
2. Question Assumptions
List any assumptions you’re making about the problem. Ask:
- Why do we believe this is the problem?
- What are we assuming to be true?
Assumption:
Customers know about the product and just don’t want it.
3. Reverse the Problem
Flip the problem on its head. Instead of asking why something is happening, ask why the opposite isn’t happening.
Reversed:
“What would make customers want to buy this product?”
4. Reframe with “How might we…”
Turn the problem into an opportunity with an open-ended “How might we…” question.
Reframed:
“How might we better communicate the value of this product to our target customers?”
5. Change Perspectives
View the problem from another stakeholder’s point of view – customer, employee, competitor, etc.
Customer lens:
“What’s preventing me from seeing why I need this product?”
6. Zoom Out
Ask what broader challenge this problem is part of. Look at the bigger system.
Zoomed out:
“Is this actually a product issue, or a marketing and awareness issue?”
Reframing is one area where coaching can starting putting a different perspective on life, it is about not getting bogged down in the problem, but trying to work a way out so that actions can be taken which are of a positive nature.
If this resonates with you, or you would like to learn more about coaching and the benefits it can bring to you, please get in touch.
I would love you to take that crucial first step toward positive change by booking a complimentary Zoom discovery call. Any initial discussion with me are always free of charge, so there is nothing lose, and so much potential to be gained.
This initial meeting gives me the opportunity to understand your unique needs, challenges, and aspirations, allowing us to create a tailored coaching plan that addresses your specific circumstances.
I’m committed to supporting you throughout your journey.
Send an email to phil.adderley.coaching@gmail.com today to schedule your free session and discover how we can work together towards a meaningful transformation and lasting success.
Phil Adderley Coaching 
Leave a comment