Do you have a defensive mindset?

Graham Winter and Martin Bean CBE explore how to defeat a defensive mindset – and explain why it matters for your career as an EA.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s not just external challenges that can hinder professional growth. It’s also an internal reflex deeply ingrained in the human brain. Known as a defensive mindset, this reflex was once crucial for survival. But now, it can hold back or even derail careers in complex and ever-changing workplaces.

What is a defensive mindset?

It’s like an automatic shield that kicks in when you feel threatened – not necessarily by physical dangers but by anything that challenges your ego or comfort zone. For example, you get some unexpected feedback on a project. Instead of embracing it, you immediately feel defensive, protecting yourself from any perceived criticism. This way of shielding ourselves can show up in various ways, from avoiding feedback and justifying actions defensively to dismissing alternative views without consideration.

While it’s a natural response aimed at preserving our sense of security, it often holds us back from reaching our full potential. Recognising the downsides of a defensive mindset is crucial for your career because overly protecting yourself can unintentionally stunt personal and professional growth.

Common issues:

1. Avoiding feedback: Openness to constructive feedback and admitting mistakes are crucial for learning and growth. A defensive mindset hinders this process.
2. Resisting change: Defensive individuals often cling to familiar routines, hindering their adaptability to new technologies or industry trends.
3. Blame-shifting: Assigning blame to others for mistakes rather than taking responsibility can damage your credibility and hinder professional relationships.
4. Strained interpersonal relationships: Conflict avoidance and defensiveness in interactions undermine effective collaboration and networking opportunities.

How to overcome a defensive mindset

Ever felt like your career is stuck in a rut or hindered by self-doubt? Here are three actionable strategies to break free from defensiveness and chart a path towards success:

Cultivate self-awareness

There are various practices and strategies available, and we have found the following work particularly well:

• Reflect regularly – Take time for self-reflection to recognise defensive tendencies and triggers.
• Seek feedback: Ask trusted mentors or colleagues for input to uncover blind spots and areas for improvement.
• Practice mindfulness: Explore techniques like meditation or journaling to observe thoughts and emotions impartially.

Acknowledge and embrace discomfort

This is a pivotal step in the journey of personal and professional growth. Below are some actionable strategies:

• Set stretch goals: Challenge with goals that go beyond your current skill levels or comfort zones. Start with small, attainable milestones that gradually push your boundaries.
• Take calculated risks: Volunteer for projects or assignments outside your comfort zone but offering valuable learning opportunities.
• Be proactive: Actively pursue opportunities for learning and growth, even if they involve discomfort or the possibility of failure.

Confront challenges

This means proactively addressing issues and obstacles rather than avoiding or denying them. Here’s how to tackle challenges head-on:

• Break down complex problems: Daunting challenges look less difficult when broken into manageable tasks with a clear plan of action. Focus on tackling one step at a time.
• Seek support: Don’t hesitate to seek input from mentors, colleagues or other resources. Collaborating will give you insights, perspectives and practical solutions.
• Take ownership: When mistakes or setbacks happen, put your focus on finding solutions rather than dwelling on failures. Learn from setbacks, adapt your approach and keep moving forward with determination.

Unleash your potential

Breaking free from a defensive mindset isn’t just about career advancement. It’s about unleashing your full potential. By tuning into your inner dialogue, embracing discomfort as a pathway to growth and tackling challenges head-on, you’re not just evolving yourself but also empowering your team to thrive. Your journey towards an adaptive mindset starts now. Embrace it, own it and watch your career soar.

Also read: Stress-busting for a happy mindset | Executive PA Media