When you find yourself getting emotional or defensive, there is a reason behind it. The key is to dig into the WHY.
Things were nearing the closing in a recent contract negotiation. The other party said something that questioned my good faith in the transaction. I became heated up…and fast. Just when I was about to say something that would be nearly impossible to take back, I fortunately had the clarity of mind (and a deep breath helped too) to pull back. It was a moment where the words were tough to swallow but my head overruled my fight response and I was able to walk away with my dignity and the deal (the deal being the more important part).
Later when I reflected on the situation, I saw the logic in what was said and realized its validity. When you hear something absurd that has no truth whatsoever, you can laugh it off, but there won’t be a snap. When you heat up and go on defense, it is because there is a truth you are not ready to see and acknowledge, something that really strikes a nerve. These are the moments where you need to take a chill pill, a deep breath and reflect.
It is only when we can see our true selves in the mirror that our best Hunter emerges. Be mindful of defensive moments, they are opportunities to grow into your authentic self. Great moments of discomfort can be as enlightening and empowering as great moments of comfort. They help reveal the true you: the real reflection.
