The Terri Cole Show

Be honest. Have you ever felt your walls go up when someone gives you feedback? Maybe your partner says, "You're always on your phone," or your boss points out a mistake, and before you even realize it, you're explaining, justifying, or firing back. You are not alone. Defensiveness is a profoundly human response. It is our nervous system's way of saying, "I feel threatened." But while it may feel like protection, defensiveness actually builds a wall between you and the people you care about most. Let's talk about why it happens, how to shift it, and how to give feedback in a way that strengthens the connection rather than breaking it down. Read the show notes for today's episode at terricole.com/782