In her TEDxUnity Park talk, Khailing Neoh delves into the psychology behind defensiveness and offers practical strategies to overcome it. Neoh explains that our instinct to become defensive stems from a place of fear and insecurity, as we feel the need to protect ourselves from perceived threats or criticism. She emphasizes that defensiveness is a natural response but can hinder our personal growth and relationships if not addressed.
Neoh suggests that one way to combat defensiveness is through self-awareness and mindfulness. By acknowledging and examining our triggers and insecurities, we can better understand why we react defensively in certain situations. She also encourages active listening and open communication as tools to prevent defensiveness from escalating conflicts.
Overall, Neoh advocates for a more compassionate and empathetic approach in dealing with defensiveness. By fostering a sense of vulnerability and understanding within ourselves, we can break down defensive barriers and cultivate healthier, more authentic relationships.
Watch the video by TEDxTalks
Author Video Description
In her talk, Khailing speaks on the practical everyday understanding of our ego and how to acknowledge, accept, and continue with our lives in light of what it has to say. Through this process, Khailing proposes that we are able to build a healthy framework for responding to feelings of insecurity that we experience in our day to day lives.
Khailing Neoh is an restauranteur, entrepreneur, and community advocate based in Greenville, South Carolina. Khailing has spent most of her life learning from her community. Her passion for people led her to create Sum Bar, Greenville’s first dim sum restaurant. Food may be the vehicle, but stories and people are the true source of inspiration. Her non-profit work, personal journey, and listening leadership makes her qualified to speak on empathy and ego. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
About TEDxTalks
TEDx is an international community that organizes TED-style events anywhere and everywhere — celebrating locally-driven ideas and elevating them to a global stage. TEDx events are produced independently of TED conferences, each event curates speakers on their own, but based on TED’s format and rules.
Video “Why we get defensive—and how to stop | Khailing Neoh | TEDxUnity Park” was uploaded on 06/08/2024 to Youtube Channel TEDx Talks