like fight,
freeze,
feedback can trigger stress and anxiety for
both the giver and receiverthe various stress
responses,
flight,
and fawn,
Typical behaviors during feedback:
Mindset : "I need to defend myself."
Arguing or becoming defensive
Explaining why the feedback is wrong
Blaming others or external circumstances
Challenging the credibility of the feedback giver
Interrupting frequently
a person might react with anger and aggression
Mindset : "I don't know what to do."
Going blank
Inability to respond
Difficulty thinking clearly
Avoiding eye contact
Saying very little
they may shut down and fail to absorb the feedback
Mindset : "I need to get away from this discomfort."
Avoiding difficult conversations
Changing the subject
Delaying follow-up actions
Mentally disengaging
Excessive justification followed by withdrawal
Anxiety and fear of failure or criticism
I need to get away from this discomfort.
Mindset : "I need to keep everyone happy."
Agreeing with everything immediately
Over-apologizing
Accepting feedback without proper discussion
Promising unrealistic corrective actions
Suppressing one's own perspective
Growth strategy:
Pause before responding.
Ask clarifying questions.
Separate intent from impact.
Focus on learning rather than defending.
Healthy Feedback
Ask for time to reflect.
Take written notes.
Repeat back what you heard.
Schedule a follow-up discussion if necessary.
Instead of reacting from Fight, Flight, Freeze, or Fawn:
Stay present.
Take notes during feedback.
Commit to one improvement action.
View feedback as information, not judgment.
Practice balanced responses.
Acknowledge feedback without automatically agreeing.
Share your perspective respectfully.
Ask questions before committing to actions.
1. Listen fully.
2. Pause before responding.
3. Ask clarifying questions.
4. Look for the improvement opportunity.
5. Agree on specific actions.