Contain the Story Framework
Keep feedback in perspective
The Contain the Story Framework is a tool for keeping feedback in perspective. By using the Feedback Containment Chart, the Balancing Picture, and Right-Sizing, individuals can contain the story and respond more effectively to feedback. This framework involves recognizing the rules of physics for stories, such as time, specificity, and people, and revising one's story to be consistent with these rules.
- Stories about feedback can become distorted and exaggerated
- Containing the story can help individuals respond more effectively
- Recognizing the rules of physics for stories is key to containing the story
- Use the Feedback Containment ChartFill out the chart to see the feedback and contain it.Pro tipBe specific and detailed in your answersWarningAvoid denying or exaggerating the feedback
- Draw the Balancing PictureIllustrate the balance of positives and negatives to keep the feedback in perspective.Pro tipUse visual aids to help loosen up the storyWarningAvoid getting caught up in negative emotions or storytelling
An individual receives feedback on a performance review and uses the Contain the Story Framework to keep the feedback in perspective.
The concept of containing the story is based on the idea that our stories about feedback can often become distorted and exaggerated, and that containing the story can help us to respond more effectively.