The author’s numerous examples of reframes demonstrate how they can provide comfort in bad times, or challenge you to better yourself in any way you feel is necessary. For instance, Adams advises the reader to manage their anxiety about being judged by changing their own mindset first. In his chapter “Mental Health Reframes,” the author writes that reframing their judgment of themselves and others will stop people from inviting “unnecessary pain” into their lives (68). Instead of making a negative judgment, Adams tells himself, “We’re all flawed, and we’re all good at different things” (68). 



He believes that this kinder mindset will, in turn, provide comfort to the reader by alleviating their insecurity. He writes, “Stop judging others so much and watch how much less you worry about being judged” (68). 

Adams also emphasizes embracing challenges through reframing. Rather than trying to avoid failure or embarrassment, Adams urges the reader to actively pursue it, claiming that it can actually bring its own benefits. He explains, “Usual Frame: Embarrassment is something to be avoided. Reframe: Embarrassment is an investment  […] You almost always come out ahead when you take a hard shot to your ego and survive to play again” (21). The author’s interest in personal growth is evident in his continual emphasis on embracing challenges, and he lets the reader decide which ones they should pursue.

In his explanations of reframes and how they work, Adams argues that people are strongly affected by language and can use this cognitive quirk to their own advantage. He explains, “Your brain will process a lie—or any form of fiction—the same way it processes a truth…imagination—including reframing—can also rewire your brain over time. You simply need to focus and repeat the reframe in your head long enough for the hack to work” (6). Though only words, reframes can have a lasting effect on people’s perceptions if those words are powerful and memorable enough. He recommends taking time to choose the “right powered word” for your particular reframe (169). 

Adams points to novelty and association as key factors which make some words more memorable and effective than others. For instance, for people who want to quit drinking he recommends reframing alcohol as “poison.” This forceful word—which creates an automatic sense of revulsion— could make this reframe memorable and impactful enough to work for some individuals. He attributes the success of this reframe in his own life to the power of its memorable phrasing: “My story that alcohol is poison has become my reality” (6). This example showcases the power of language to shape thoughts and therefore behaviors. Adams thus urges readers to consider which words invoke powerful, motivating feelings within them, and to adapt the reframes accordingly for maximum impact.

Adams portrays humans as inherently irrational and easily persuaded. Instead of lamenting this lack of rationality, Adams considers it an opportunity. When harnessed in a positive way, people can use their gullibility to manage their own inner life and perceptions. Adams points to visuals, whether pictures or mental visualizations, as being inherently persuasive, claiming “Whoever controls ‘the picture’ usually wins the day” (206). Other tools of persuasion include novelty, associations, and patterns. 

Adams believes that repetition is another key persuasion tactic, explaining that reframes should be repeated to persuade yourself to really believe them. Adams explains, “Human rationality is so thin that repeating an obvious lie often enough will make the lie sound believable…Simply find a message, deliver it, and repeat” (201). 

The author’s lengthy assessment of irrationality and persuasion ends on a positive note, as he considers the silver lining of this element of human cognition. He coaches the reader to “reframe life as a dashboard of persuasion buttons you can push as needed to persuade others—and to train your own brain to author your reality” (206). This lesson asks the reader to recognize their mind’s capacity for inner persuasion and decision-making and put it into action.