When we come across someone else who is clearly defensive, the tried and true next step is the one we take away from the person.
Pushing and prodding to open them up only leads to them building the wall higher. Smile and carry on.
However, there are plenty of times when we notice that we’re the ones being defensive.
The tried and true next step is the one we take toward curiosity. When we do the asking, it puts the attention and onus on the other. When we lean in to observe or listen, we give ourselves permission to not act, and simply to absorb.
It’s not easy to stop being defensive; but it is worth it.
For you and those you’re being defensive to.
Stay Positive & Curiosity Is The Best Defense
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Garth Beyer is a Certified Cicerone®, Senior Content Specialist at Encompass Technologies, owner of Garth's Brew Bar and a Madison-based freelance writer.
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