Independent Non-Executive Director, Digital Transformation, Telecommunication, Information Technology and Digital Economy leader.
Reframing Suffering: Why Perspective Shapes Our Reality “Suffering comes from our view of things, not from the things themselves.” The Philosophy Behind the Quote This insight, rooted in Stoic philosophy, reminds us that while pain and challenges are unavoidable, suffering is largely shaped by our interpretation of those experiences. Events themselves are neutral, it is the meaning we assign to them that defines whether we feel defeated or empowered. The Stoics believed that external events are beyond our control, but our response to them is within our control (Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy). This timeless wisdom is as relevant to leadership and personal growth today as it was 2,000 years ago. Psychology Confirms It Modern psychology echoes this principle. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), one of the most effective therapeutic approaches, is built on the idea that our thoughts more than events themselves determine our emotional responses. By reframing negative thought patterns, we can reduce distress and strengthen resilience (APA). In leadership, this means shifting perspective from “failure” to “feedback,” or from “crisis” to “challenge.” The event doesn’t change—but our mindset transforms how we experience it. Why This Matters in Leadership Leaders often face volatility: economic shocks, competitive threats, or organizational setbacks. The ability to reframe challenges is not about ignoring reality, but about interpreting it in ways that inspire constructive action rather than paralysis. Harvard Business Review notes that resilient leaders frame crises as opportunities for growth, learning, and innovation, which helps their teams remain engaged and motivated even under pressure (HBR). Practical Ways to Reframe 1- Pause Before Reacting – Separate the event from your immediate interpretation. 2- Ask Empowering Questions – Instead of “Why me?” ask “What can I learn from this?” 3- Focus on Controllables – Direct energy toward what you can influence, not what you can’t. 4- Normalize Setbacks – See challenges as part of progress, not deviations from it. These practices reduce emotional suffering while improving clarity and decision-making. A Call to Professionals Suffering is inevitable when we allow events to dictate our mindset. But when we shift perspective, we reclaim agency. As professionals, reframing adversity doesn’t make difficulties disappear, it equips us to lead through them with strength and purpose. ✅ Key takeaway: We can’t always control events, but we can always control how we see them. And in that shift, suffering transforms into resilience.
Beyond 40… yet… what is “new”? And what are intersections beyond entrenchment? LoveEVICTShate.
Seeking for opportunities in Finance as Credit Collections Analyst / Financial Analyst/ Data Analyst / Finance Controller
1moSuffering is a choice, where pain isn’t.