Is it time for new frames?

It was time for a long overdue eye exam and some vision hygiene in March. The good news was that my Rx didn’t change, but I still went for something new. Easy right?

As my fellow eyeglass-wearing peeps will tell you, your frames tell a story, and growing up, I had a geeky one that included masking tape to fix my frequently broken glasses.

The proper frame can change how we see a painting, a photo, and, most importantly, ourselves. Just as our eye-glass frames shape our style, our mental and emotional frames set the context for how others see us.

Framing, in a psychological sense, is essential. If you frame yourself as ‘less than,’ not worthy, or incapable, that’s the image you project. It is, effectively, the ‘frame’ through which others will see you. Conversely, if you confidently frame yourself, highlighting your strengths and embracing your humanness, you allow your true spirit to come forward.

Unfortunately, from corporate warriors to entrepreneurs, I have seen far too many people during my career put on frames that limit them.

Here’s a little PSA: Not all optometrists and managers have style. They may be great in other aspects of their jobs, but helping people pick the right frames might not be one of them. Ultimately, we own our frames.

So, how do you pick the right ones for yourself?

First, never go shopping with dilated pupils – trust me on this one.

Next, like most things, it starts with our self-awareness lens. Understand the narrative you’ve been telling yourself. You’ve done hard things that deserve recognition. Own your accomplishments and blemishes, no matter how small, and see them as unique aspects of your perspective. And your perspective is your differentiator. So embrace it. If you don’t, nobody will.

Furthermore, just like choosing frames that complement your face, select the traits and skills that best showcase your capabilities. This isn’t about creating a false image but highlighting the qualities you may have been downplaying or overlooking.

One practical way to do this is by crafting your personal story – how you tell your story matters. Focus on the stories that demonstrate resilience, growth, and agility, to name a few qualities. When you speak about yourself, whether in a job interview, performance review, networking event, or even a casual conversation, lead with the positives, and rather than ignoring the unattractive frames of your youth, make them a part of your narrative.

Finally, remember that framing is an ongoing process. Just as styles change, you, too, will evolve. How you see yourself at twenty will be different at forty, sixty, and beyond. Embrace this evolution.

In framing ourselves as our loudest advocates, we take control of our narrative and reject the idea of being ‘less than,’ and instead, we choose frames that honor the awesome sauce within us.

Oh, my new glasses. It was a debacle. I loved my new frames but couldn’t get the lens right after three attempts, so I’m now staying with my old ones as I go with the flow.

Until next week, have fun storming the castle!

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