Your brain tells you stories. Some aren't helpful.
Unhelpful story: "I'm behind everyone else."
Reframe: "I'm learning faster than a college student because I have professional context."
Unhelpful story: "Real engineers have CS degrees."
Reframe: "Some of the best engineers are self-taught. Credentials don't write code."
Unhelpful story: "I'm too old for this."
Reframe: "I bring maturity and perspective that new grads lack."
Reframing isn't lying. It's choosing interpretations that help you move forward.
Career Changer Tip: Write your unhelpful stories. Then write reframes. Read them when struggling.