How to reframe negative thoughts into opportunities

Unlock your potential

Author

Skip Flanagan
October 15, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes

Hey team!
Let’s get real for a second- everyone faces negative thoughts. Whether it’s a tough loss, a missed goal, or just a rough day, those “I’m not good enough” or “I always mess up” thoughts can creep in and slow us down. But here’s the truth: those thoughts don’t have to define you.

Why Reframing Matters

  • Negative thinking isn’t just a mood killer - it directly impacts your performance, confidence, and growth

  • The good news? You have the power to flip the script.

  • Reframing is about turning setbacks into setups for success. It’s a skill, and like any skill, it gets stronger with practice.

The M.A.S.T.E.R. Approach to Reframing

Here’s a simple process you can use, inspired by my own MASTER framework:

  1. Mindful Awareness: Notice when a negative thought pops up. Don’t judge it—just recognize it.

  2. Acknowledge: Name the thought (“I’m feeling frustrated about missing that shot”).

  3. Shift Perspective: Ask, “What can I learn from this?” or “How could this help me grow?”

  4. Take Action: Replace the negative with a positive or constructive one (“Missing that shot shows me what to practice next time”).

  5. Engage Support: Share your new perspective with a teammate, coach, or journal about it.

  6. Repeat: The more you practice, the easier it gets.

Real-World Example

Last week, one of my clients was frustrated after a tough training session. Instead of letting that frustration turn into self-doubt, we worked together to find the lesson—what went well, what didn’t, and what could be improved. That shift turned a “bad workout” into a growth opportunity.

Quick Drill: The “Flip It” Challenge

  • Step 1: Write down one negative thought you’ve had recently.

  • Step 2: Flip it—find one opportunity or lesson hidden inside.

  • Step 3: Say it out loud or write it somewhere you’ll see it this week.

Remember

Setbacks are part of the journey. What matters is how you respond. Start reframing today and watch your performance—and your mindset—level up.

Stay relentless,
Skip

PS: Check out my new website; mentalperformancenetwork.com