An exercise in reframing: problem to situation

Problem -> Statement

To practice neutral observation without judgment and to better help us make appropriate decisions, I believe it’s important to be mindful of the language that we use. This isn’t to say use boring and soulless language, it’s a perspective on not making unnecessary leading statements, to be mindful that there is more than one view on a situation, there are tradeoffs, etc…

The word problem biases us towards a negative scenario that demands a solution; a reaction.

Substituting problem with situation, or perhaps even context, leads us towards neutral observation; but we’re human, so perhaps less bias.

A situation we can choose to respond to, problems typically demand a solution, or at the very minimum, brain space.

Reframing affords us the path of observation, which in turn leads to perceiving the situation within a given system. From this position, we have the option to take action if needed; where no action is also a course of action (a response).

A problem statement is reframed to situation to address - ok, granted, it’s useful for defining scope, and it gets a response, but at least practice observation and attempt to not be influenced by biases.

We have a problem turns into, We have a situation with these characteristics in this context.

In a role of leadership, influence, or any role, this is an invaluable skill to provide value to the team(s) you’re on.

Observe, pause, respond.

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