Have you ever thought, “I wish I would have said that differently,” or “That didn’t come out right”? In the land of communication, so much is left for the listener to interpret. I’ve tried over the years to say things in my head first and then express the statement differently so it is interpreted more clearly and positively. It doesn’t always happen.
Reframing statements in a conversation takes thought and a willingness to hear the other person. Really hear them. Stepping back to see the bigger picture, considering the different perspectives and redefining words into helpful ones.
Becoming more aware of not only our outward communication but also our inner thoughts can help create a more positive mindset. Doing so helps us quiet the critic and gives us the control to be more accepting of ourselves. Shifting the perspective in our life can lead to a happier one. Maybe that’s finding something to be grateful for, even in challenging situations. Or maybe reminding ourselves of the positive things happening in our life.
And what does this have to do with art? Sometimes a change in perspective is needed to see things in a brand-new light. Stepping back from our work or rotating it can give us fresh information we didn’t notice before.
For me, reframing means zooming in. As someone looking to simplify my work, getting in close gives me a fresh perspective and helps me zero in on a line, form or element, I didn’t see before. Using a viewfinder helps me block out what I don’t want to see, the noise, the chaos. Knowing what we want in our art can help us narrow our focus and, in turn, get us there faster. Next time you’re stuck, stop, breathe and reframe.
“A shift in perspective opens a completely new set of unlimited possibilities.” -Satsuki Shibuya
