Framed! The Art of Decoding What’s Not Said

Ever noticed how people nod, use hand gestures, or even make funny noises instead of talking? Sure, you have. People in suits do it too, but maybe they’ve got their own secret reasons.

Imagine you’re chatting with someone and they’re doing all sorts of things – throwing you a smile, raising an eyebrow, or maybe giving you the silent treatment. This isn’t just random; it’s like they’re giving you special clues in a secret code. This super cool detective work is called “framing.” It’s like zooming in with a camera on the most interesting bits – a laugh, a sigh, or even what they didn’t say.

puzzle with missing piece

Now, let’s talk about the mystery of the unsaid stuff. It’s like being a detective in a movie, trying to figure out what’s missing from the puzzle. People who are good at this, let’s call them “Framers,” have this ninja skill to fill in the gaps and get the whole picture. It’s a bit like trying to figure out why your friend is suddenly quiet or why your mama gave you that look when you mentioned burgers for dinner… again.

Framing isn’t just for one-on-one chats; it happens all the time, whether you’re hanging out with your friends or in a big group. You could be picking up on someone’s vibe, how they’re standing, the way they talk, or even the pause before they spill the beans. Will you remember how your love said goodbye, with that special tone and those chosen words? Absolutely! You’re focusing on what matters most to you, capturing that moment in your mind like a photo.

So, have you ever caught yourself doing some framing without even realizing it? Next time you’re in a convo, see if you can spot those hidden messages and silent shout-outs. Who knows? You might just crack the code of what’s really being said!

Author: Lindsay

Chief Asker of Why, storyteller, facilitator, and wordsmith who never says no to a hot cup of tea. Author of Sunshine Why Would You Do That? An intimate look at how women sometimes behave in relationships and Sunshine Why Would You Do That? Bad Actors in the Workplace (coming November 2024). Proud member of the National Speakers Association. I'm all about digging deep into the "why" behind our choices, sparking real conversations, and helping others create meaningful connections through bold stories and thought-provoking questions.