Blog

Posted on

Accepting Feedback

Have you ever walked away from feedback—no matter how “constructive” it was—feeling like you got punched in the gut?

You’re not alone.

Negative feedback has a way of getting under our skin. We take it personally.
We spiral.
We make it mean so much more than it needs to.

We tell ourselves:
“I’m so dumb.”
“I’ll never be successful.”
“This isn’t working.”
“They don’t get me.”

And while the words themselves might sting, we’re the ones beating ourselves up in the aftermath.

But what if you could hear feedback—even the tough stuff—and handle it with grace?
No spiraling. No shame. No making it mean you’re somehow not good enough.

Here’s how:

Step 1: Stop & Take a Beat. Then Respond.

You don’t need to react immediately. Give yourself a moment.

Choose a simple phrase (or two) to have in your back pocket:

  • “Thank you. I’ll take that under consideration.”
  • “I see what you’re saying. I’ll think about that for next time.”
  • “OK, thank you.”

That’s it.
You can respond respectfully without over-explaining, defending, or making it awkward.

Example:
Your manager says:
“I think your documentation could be more thorough.”

Instead of panicking or apologizing, you calmly say:
“Thanks for the feedback. I’ll keep that in mind.”

That’s all you need in the moment. You can process it later.

Step 2: Process It—When You’re Ready

When you have some time to think, ask yourself:

  • Is there any truth here?
  • Can I see their perspective, even if I don’t fully agree?
  • Do I want to make any changes based on this feedback?
  • Is there something to learn here?

Sometimes feedback shines a light on a skill or area you want to improve.

Example:
Feedback: “You didn’t seem prepared for that patient handoff.”

Your first reaction might be frustration.
But when you step back, you might realize:

  • Were you as prepared as you wanted to be?
  • What can you learn to feel more confident next time?

Maybe it’s creating a checklist or practicing a quick summary for each patient.
Turning feedback into a learning opportunity puts you back in control.

Learning changes frustration into growth.

Step 3: Break It Down

Here’s where you separate what’s real from what’s drama in your mind.

  1. What are the facts?
    (What exactly was said? What specifically happened?)
  2. What are your emotions about those facts?
    (Upset, ashamed, annoyed, embarrassed?)
  3. What thoughts are causing those emotions?
    (What are you making this mean about you?)

Example:
Feedback: “That IV placement took too long.”

  • Fact: It took a half hour.
  • Emotion: Frustrated, embarrassed.
  • Thought: “I’m so bad at this. I’ll never get better.”

Step 4: Challenge the Thought

Is that thought true?
How could the opposite be true?

Find evidence to support it.

Example:
Thought: “I’m terrible at placing IVs.”

Ask:

  • Is it really true? (No. Most of the time, I place them quickly and effectively.)
  • Could the opposite be true? (I’m learning. Everyone has off days. I’ve done this well many times before.)

Final Thoughts: Feedback Doesn’t Define You

Feedback is data. It’s information—not a judgment of your worth.

When you stop taking it personally and start handling it with grace, you stay in control.

  • You decide what’s worth keeping.
  • You decide what to improve.
  • You decide what to let go.

And here’s the magic: Feedback can actually help you grow when you allow it.

Are you ready to start handling feedback differently?
If you’re tired of spiraling every time someone shares a critique, let’s talk.
Book a complimentary consultation, and we’ll work on tools to help you feel confident, calm, and in control—no matter what’s said.

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here. 

P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

Posted on

Why Reinvent the Wheel When What You’ve Got Works Just Fine?

Stop Fixing What Isn’t Broken

How many times have you thought, This time it’ll be different?

You bought the fancy planner. You started that new workout routine. You even downloaded the latest app everyone’s talking about.

But here you are, weeks (or days) later, feeling like you’re right back where you started.

Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing: Your brain is wired to crave novelty. 

Neuroscience tells us that when you try something new, your brain lights up with a fresh hit of dopamine. It feels good in the moment. But novelty doesn’t equal better—and it doesn’t mean it’s solving your actual problem.

So why do we keep chasing it?

Examples:

  1. Calendars and Planners
    How many planners have you abandoned mid-year? Or mid-week? You start with one, then grab another because, let’s be honest, you’re convinced this one will finally make you organized.

Spoiler alert: It’s not the planner.

  1. Workouts
    You finally found a workout routine you like—or at least one that doesn’t make you miserable. But then you see someone on Instagram doing burpees on a Bosu ball, and suddenly you think, Should I be doing that?

Here’s an idea: Stick with what you’re already doing. Because the thing that works is the thing you’ll actually do.

The Real Question: Why Are You Switching?

Next time, before you jump to something new, stop and ask yourself:

  • What’s actually working for me right now?
  • Why do I feel the need to change?
  • Am I chasing the excitement of starting over?
  • Or am I avoiding something uncomfortable?

Spoiler alert: It’s usually the uncomfortable part.

Here’s the truth: The magic isn’t in finding something new. The magic is in staying consistent with what already works, even when it feels boring or hard.

When you stop chasing shiny new solutions and stick with what already works, a few amazing things happen:

  • You save yourself a ton of time (no more Googling “best planners for 2025”).
  • You actually get results because you’re consistent.
  • You feel more in control—because you’re no longer scrambling for answers.

And here’s the best part: You start to trust yourself again.

That’s what I help my clients with—figuring out what’s actually working, why they keep chasing new things, and how to make progress without reinventing the wheel every week.

You can save yourself time, energy, and frustration—and coaching with me can help you get there faster.

Are you ready to stop spinning your wheels and start building momentum?

Book a complimentary consultation with me today. We’ll talk about where you’re stuck, what’s already working, and how coaching can help you finally move forward.

Or, join me for my LAST free masterclass of 2024, How to Abstain, on 12/11/24 at 11 am via Zoom. It’s all about cutting through clutter and creating a life that works for you.

Let’s get you results. You don’t have to do this alone.

As part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. 

Book a LOGAN HEALTH EMPLOYEE Life Coaching Session Here

Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me.

Book a COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION Here

The LAST Free Monthly Masterclass for 2024 is on December 11, How to Abstain from over eating, over drinking, over scrolling, etc. Registration is required and you can do so here:

HOW TO ABSTAIN Masterclass

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life.

Posted on

Unwrap the Magic of Getting Exactly What You Want This Holiday Season

The holiday season is here, and for healthcare professionals, that often means juggling shift swaps, holiday potlucks, and endless demands—not to mention the emotional load of giving our patients the best care during a time we’d love to spend with our own families.

In the middle of all this, we dream about the perfect holiday. Whether it’s the right gift under the tree or a family gathering that feels like a Hallmark movie, we have these expectations that often go unmet. Let’s change that this year.

Here’s how you can unwrap the magic of getting exactly what you want this holiday season—without the frustration or disappointment.

Problem #1: Expecting People to Read Your Mind

It starts with gifts. Have you ever caught yourself thinking, If they really loved me, they’d know what to get me? Or maybe, How hard is it to pick something thoughtful?

But here’s the truth: people aren’t mind readers.

Take my husband, Scott. Early in our marriage, he gave me a grill for one occasion and a lawnmower for another—our anniversary and Christmas, maybe? I don’t even remember. What I do remember is how excited I was. I love practical gifts. Sure, I wouldn’t say no to diamonds, but a grill or lawnmower? Perfect.

Now, I know not everyone would feel this way. That’s the thing about gifts—they’re deeply personal. And if you’re relying on someone to guess your version of the “perfect” present without telling them, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment.

Here’s the fix:

  • Decide if you want to be happy or surprised. If you want to be happy, tell them exactly what you’d love.
  • If you’d rather be surprised, let go of any expectations and enjoy the gesture for what it is.

It’s not just about the gift itself—it’s about setting yourself up for joy, no matter what’s inside the wrapping paper.

Problem #2: “Humans Gonna Human”

The holidays aren’t just about gifts—they’re about people. And let’s be honest, people can be… people.

Your sister might drink too much. Your mom might make everything about her. Your brother-in-law might talk too loudly, or the kids might run around like they’ve had six candy canes too many.

Here’s the thing: expecting people to suddenly behave differently because it’s the holidays is like expecting a hospital to be calm and quiet during flu season. It’s just not going to happen.

Instead, ask yourself: What would it look like to accept them as they are?

For example, maybe your mother’s self-centeredness is predictable. Instead of trying to make her see the bigger picture, you could let her comments roll off your back and focus on what makes youfeel good. Maybe your kids running wild isn’t the disaster you think it is—it’s just kids being kids.

When you release your expectations, you free yourself from unnecessary frustration.

Focus on What You Can Control

Here’s a game-changing idea: instead of pouring all your energy into managing everyone else’s experience, turn that energy inward. What would make the holiday magical for you?

Maybe it’s sitting by the fire with a cup of tea while the chaos unfolds around you. Maybe it’s going for a walk after a shift to clear your mind.

When you prioritize your own joy, a funny thing happens—the people around you feel it, too.

How to Get Exactly What You Want

Here’s a simple plan to make this holiday season your best yet:

  1. Communicate clearly what you want. Whether it’s a gift or a holiday plan, don’t leave room for misinterpretation.
  2. Let people be themselves. Adjust your expectations instead of trying to change them.
  3. Focus on your own joy. Ask yourself: What can I do to make this season special for me?

And here’s the magic: when you do this, you’ll feel happier, calmer, and more present—and that’s the real gift of the season.

Ready for a Happier Holiday?

If you’re tired of holiday stress and ready to create a life you love year-round, let’s talk. Book a complimentary consultation here.

And don’t miss my next free monthly masterclass (the last one this year!!) on 12/11/24: How to Abstain, where we’ll explore how to stop “overing” —over eating, over drinking, over scrolling—just in time for the holiday. Reserve your spot here.

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here. 

Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me here.

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

Posted on

Stuck in Survival Mode? Let’s Take Back Your Time

Ever feel like life is running you instead of the other way around?

The to-do list never ends. Your shifts are unpredictable. The kids need a ride from school, and somehow you’re supposed to squeeze in errands, grocery shopping, and maybe—just maybe—a little rest.

Sound familiar?

If you’re nodding along, here’s what you need to know: time management isn’t about waking up earlier or cramming more into your day. It’s about learning a process that works for you—one that helps you feel less stressed, more confident, and maybe even a little excited about your days.

And I’ve got a process that works.

This week, I’m breaking it all down in a series of IG Lives where I’ll show you exactly how to:

  1. Plan: Create a schedule that actually works for your life—even with chaos in the mix.
  2. Implement: Learn how to stop procrastinating, stay focused, and follow through (without constant self-bargaining over every task).
  3. Evaluate: Figure out what’s working, what’s not, and how to tweak your plan so it keeps working for you.

Here’s the kicker: I’m not just teaching this. I’m doing it with you.

Because even though I have time, I’m tired of wasting it on mental arguments with myself over errands, grocery shopping, and boring-but-important stuff. I want to become the person who actually does what they said they’d do—when they said they’d do it.

If that resonates with you, let’s do this together.

Join me for the IG Lives this week. The videos will stay up, so you can jump in anytime.
[Click here to follow along on Instagram]

Or, if you want one-on-one support to create a time management plan designed specifically for your life, book a free session with me below.

Your time is valuable. Let’s make sure you’re using it to create a life you actually love.

As part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions.

Book a LOGAN HEALTH EMPLOYEE Life Coaching Session Here

Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me.

Book a COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION Here

The LAST Free Monthly Masterclass for 2024 is on December 11, How to Abstain from over eating, over drinking, over scrolling, etc. Registration is required and you can do so here:

HOW TO ABSTAIN MASTERCLASS

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life.

Posted on

One Sentence

When I heard Gretchen Rubin’s term “midlife malaise,” it hit me like a ton of bricks—that was me. I had been lost in my own life, just drifting along, not fully engaged in living. I was constantly wondering, Is this it? Is this all there is to life?

I knew something was missing, but I had no idea how to figure out what it was.
I knew something was off, but I didn’t know how to make it right.
I wanted to be happier, to enjoy my life, to be a better wife and stepmom, but how?

Then one day, I stumbled across a quote in Real Simple magazine. It said, “What’s the goal of your life? For me, it’s to make the people I love happy and have a good time with them.”

And I thought, That’s it. That’s what I want—to live with joy, with purpose, to actually feel alive in my own life. But then that question crept back in: how?

Maybe some people are just born knowing how to live that way.
Maybe I wasn’t wired for it.
Maybe I’d missed my chance.

If this sounds familiar, let me tell you: one sentence can change your life.

For me, that sentence was: “I know exactly what to do here.”

That simple phrase helped me break free from the endless cycle of “but how?” and start believing I already had the answers. Every time I repeated it, my brain shifted from feeling stuck to offering solutions. Suddenly, ideas came to me—small actions I could take to move forward. And each time I took action, I created proof that, yes, I did know how.

Instead of feeling frustrated, hopeless, and lost, I began creating real, meaningful change in my life.

That one sentence transformed everything. It helped me stop seeking and start creating the life I’d been longing for.

So, if you’re ready to stop searching and start creating an extraordinary life, let me help you. You can get through the hard things, and you can feel fully present and engaged in your life.

Life’s too short to spend it just getting by. It’s time to start creating the extraordinary life you deserve—and I can show you how.

Are you ready to find your one sentence?

As part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here. 

Book a LOGAN HEALTH EMPLOYEE Life Coaching Session Here

Or, if you are not a Logan Health Employee, you can book a consultation to learn how to work with me here.

Book a COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION Here

The LAST Free Monthly Masterclass f 2024 is on December 11, How to Abstain from over eating, over drinking, over scrolling, etc. You can see more info & register here. I hope to see you there!

HOW TO ABSTAIN MASTERCLASS

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

Posted on

3 Surprising Myths About Boundaries (and What They Really Mean for Your Relationships)

When we hear the word “boundaries,” it’s common to think of drawing a line, creating distance, or saying “no.” But true boundaries are so much more than limits—they’re about clarity, respect, and ultimately, connection. And yet, there are still many myths that keep people from setting healthy boundaries in their lives. Let’s clear up a few:

Myth #1: Boundaries Push People Away  

One of the biggest misunderstandings around boundaries is that they’re meant to keep people at arm’s length. But boundaries aren’t about building walls; they’re about setting guidelines that let others know where you stand. Clear boundaries allow you to show up authentically, which actually brings you *closer* to others by promoting trust and mutual respect.

Myth #2: Boundaries Are Rigid and Unchangeable  

Setting a boundary isn’t about locking yourself into one rule for life. Boundaries can evolve as you grow and as your relationships shift. The key is to set boundaries that feel right for *you* and adjust as needed. Think of them as guidelines rather than unbreakable rules.

Myth #3: Only Big Problems Require Boundaries  

Many people think boundaries are only necessary when there’s a major issue. But boundaries are powerful in our everyday interactions, too. They help us protect our time, energy, and well-being, whether it’s committing to 15 minutes of downtime or setting limits on work-related messages after hours. Even small boundaries can have a big impact on our mental and emotional health.

Ready to Start Setting Boundaries that Work?

Join me for my All About Boundaries Masterclass tomorrow at 11 AM MT via Zoom. We’ll break down the steps to create boundaries that feel true to you and explore how to honor them even when it’s tough. Can’t make it live? No worries—replays will be sent out to everyone who registers. [Link to register]

It’s time to leave the myths behind and start setting boundaries that help you thrive.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Register for All About Boundaries Here

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions.

Book a LOGAN HEALTH EMPLOYEE Life Coaching Session Here
Everyone else… Book a COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATION Here 🙂

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

Posted on

Setting Boundaries that Stick: Practical Tips for Healthcare Professionals


Healthcare is all about giving. You’re there for your patients, your team, and sometimes even strangers when they need it most. But who’s there for you when feel you stretched thin?

It’s easy to feel like you’re supposed to be constantly available. Taking on extra shifts, answering emails after hours, and saying “yes” to last-minute favors have almost become badges of honor. But what if it’s costing you more than you think?

The Challenge of Boundaries in Healthcare
Have you ever had that feeling when you’re finally off the clock, but your phone just won’t stay silent? Or maybe you’re exhausted from a long week, and yet you’re signing up for extra shifts because it feels wrong not to help out.

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. In healthcare, these kinds of demands are often unspoken expectations. But without boundaries, burnout isn’t far behind. And let’s be honest: burnt-out you isn’t the best version of you—for your patients or for your own life and family.

Shifting Your Mindset on Boundaries
Setting boundaries isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Boundaries aren’t barriers; they’re a way to decide what’s truly important to focus on and let go of what isn’t, so you can keep giving sustainably. When you know where your limits are, you can serve at your best without running dry.

How to Set and Keep Your Boundaries

  1. Start with Small, Clear No’s
    Saying “no” doesn’t have to be dramatic. Start with small boundaries, like declining non-urgent calls after hours or setting a cutoff time for work emails. You can keep it simple and professional: “I won’t be able to respond to non-urgent requests after 7 PM.”
  2. Use Your Schedule as a Boundary Tool
    Your schedule is one of your most powerful boundary allies. Block off personal time on your calendar—yes, even if you have to make it a meeting with yourself! Prioritizing that time is a way to recharge so you can come back to work focused and energized.
  3. Communicate Openly and Often
    Talk to your team, your supervisor, or anyone who might expect your availability. Being clear about your boundaries (and reinforcing them when needed) helps others respect your time. Remember, setting a boundary once isn’t enough; reinforcing it regularly builds respect and understanding.
  4. Let Go of Guilt
    You can be compassionate without sacrificing yourself. Setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re not committed; it means you’re committed to showing up as your best self. This mindset is essential for long-term success in healthcare.

The Difference Boundaries Can Make
Imagine finishing your shift and actually being able to leave work at work. Or starting your day feeling rested instead of running on fumes. Boundaries help you build a sustainable career, showing up for your patients and colleagues fully engaged and present.

Closing
Boundary-setting is a skill, and like any skill, it gets easier with practice. If you’re curious about taking this further, I’m hosting a free webinar on boundary-setting specifically for healthcare professionals, where we’ll dive deeper into strategies and answer your questions. You can also book a complimentary consultation to explore coaching support that helps you set boundaries and regain balance in your life.

What’s one small boundary you’ve set (or would like to set) that’s helped you feel more balanced at work or home?

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here. 

BOOK A LOGAN HEALTH COACHING SESSION HERE
FOR NON-LOGAN EMPLOYEES, BOOK A COACHING CONSULTATION HERE

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

REGISTER FOR THE NEXT MASTERCLASS: ALL ABOUT BOUNDARIES

Posted on

How to Live an Extraordinary Life (Yes, Even with Your Busy Schedule)

Does the idea of living an extraordinary life feel out of reach when you’re buried in work and the endless demands of healthcare? You’re not alone if it does. But here’s a little secret: an extraordinary life is not only possible—it’s closer than you think. There’s a process to get there, one step at a time, and it starts with learning how to manage your mind.

Managing your mind is all about how you handle stress, make tough choices, and feel confident about those decisions without second-guessing. It’s not a personality trait or something you’re born with; it’s a skill you can develop. And it’s this skill that can help you live life on your own terms, even within the intense world of healthcare.

Imagine going into each day feeling clear, confident, and ready for whatever comes your way. It’s more than just surviving the day-to-day—it’s a way of actively designing a life you love, even on the busiest days.

So, how can you get started with managing your mind? Here’s one powerful step:

Notice the Little Wins  

When you finish a difficult shift or handle a challenging patient with care and patience, recognize that as a win. Confidence doesn’t come in a flash; it’s built gradually, one brick at a time, through moments like these. Acknowledging these small victories builds your resilience and reminds you that you *are* in control.

By making a habit of celebrating these everyday successes, you’ll find yourself feeling more confident and at ease with life’s demands. It might feel small, but the benefits add up. And over time, this mental clarity and confidence become the foundation for a life you love—one you’re designing, not just letting happen.

Living an extraordinary life in healthcare isn’t about changing careers or dropping all your commitments. It’s about taking ownership of your mindset, finding clarity, and building confidence that sticks.

Ready to explore this further?  

Join me on November 13 for an online masterclass on Boundaries, where we’ll dive into strategies to build a life that fits you. Or, if you’re ready to take a deeper dive, stay tuned for a special offer designed to set you up for your best year yet. (Let me know if you want to be one of the first to know.)

Let’s make an extraordinary life your reality. Registration is required, click the link below to sign up.

SIGN UP: ALL ABOUT BOUNDARIES MASTERCLASS

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session

SIGN UP: COACHING SESSION

Posted on

A True Story About Communication

I wanted to share a moment with you that taught me a huge lesson about staying calm in difficult situations.

One time, I had two direct reports who left work early. They had finished their productive work for the day and just…left. The problem? They were still required to work 40 hours a week, and their early exit was not okay.

My first reaction was immediate anger. My heart was pounding; my mind raced with questions like, “How could they just leave like that?” and “What were they thinking?” I could feel my frustration rising as I prepared to confront them.

But as a coach, I now know to do something I wish I had learned sooner— to pause. Instead of charging into that conversation with anger, to take a beat and give myself a moment to think before reacting.

Pausing would have given me the space to shift from defensiveness to curiosity. Instead of assuming they didn’t care or weren’t taking their jobs seriously, I wondered, “What was their reasoning?” or “Was there something going on that I didn’t know about?”

This curiosity could help me approach the conversation much calmer. I could say, “I noticed you left work early today,” and have a productive discussion that leads to more understanding—and a clearer plan moving forward.

How to Stay Calm When You’re Angry

We’ve all been in situations where our first instinct is to react emotionally. Whether at work with your team or home with loved ones, your emotions can take over before you’ve had time to think. And when that happens, conversations can spiral into frustration, defensiveness, and conflict.

But staying calm is possible, even when your initial reaction is anger.

Here’s a little trick that has worked wonders for me: When you feel the heat rising, pause and take a beat. This gives you enough time to gather your thoughts and prevent your emotions from dictating your reaction. It’s a small habit that can make a big difference in the heat of the moment.

When you give yourself that brief pause, you create space to shift from judgment to curiosity. Instead of jumping to conclusions or making assumptions, you can ask questions that lead to understanding, opening the door to a meaningful, productive conversation rather than an argument.

This small change in approach can prevent so much conflict—and build trust and collaboration instead.

Practice Makes Progress

Like any skill, staying calm and leading with curiosity takes practice. But the more you do it, the more natural it becomes. Over time, your conversations become less stressful and more productive.

If this approach sounds like something you’d like to explore more, I’ll cover it in my Collaborative Communication Masterclass. It’s a great opportunity to learn actionable strategies to stay calm in challenging situations and improve your conversations. I will help you apply these strategies in your daily life, making your day more productive and your relationships better. 

Reminder: as part of the benefits offered at Logan Health, employees get free coaching sessions. You can book a coaching session here. 

P.P.S. Liked what you read? Join my email list, where I dive deeper into these concepts and teach you HOW to put them into practice in your everyday life. And don’t forget to follow me on Instagram (@christineseager_) or Facebook (@seager.christine), where I share both teaching moments and real-life examples of this work in action. 

Posted on

Breaking Down Defensive Walls: The Key to Better Conversations

One of the biggest challenges in healthcare communication is defensiveness. You’ve likely experienced it yourself—someone makes a comment, and before you even think about it, you feel the need to defend your actions. This is especially common in high-pressure environments like hospitals, where emotions can run high, and time is limited.

But here’s the thing: defensiveness shuts down conversations.

Instead of connecting and solving problems, it creates walls that are hard to break through. So, how can you dismantle those walls and create a space where real conversations can happen?

Problem: Why Defensiveness Takes Over

Defensiveness often kicks in when we feel misunderstood or criticized. Our brain goes into protection mode, making it hard to hear the other person’s perspective. And in healthcare, where every decision feels important, this reaction is even stronger.

But defensiveness doesn’t just hurt the conversation; it blocks the chance for true collaboration.

Solution: Focus on Empathy and Curiosity

To break through defensiveness, try leading with empathy and curiosity. Here’s how:

  • Start by acknowledging their emotions: Statements like, “I can see why you might feel frustrated,” show the other person that you recognize their experience. This lowers their defenses and opens the door for a more constructive conversation.
  • Ask questions rather than making assumptions: Instead of assuming why something went wrong, ask about their thought process. Try, “What was going on for you in that moment?” or “How do you think we can avoid this next time?” This invites a collaborative mindset, allowing both sides to work together toward a solution.

Results: Building Trust and Reducing Conflict

When you approach conversations with empathy and curiosity, you not only avoid triggering defensiveness but also build trust. People feel heard and understood, which leads to more openness, cooperation, and problem-solving.

By practicing these techniques, you can make conversations in healthcare less about defending positions and more about working together to find solutions.

Want to go deeper? My Collaborative Communication masterclass will give you practical tools to use empathy and curiosity effectively, helping you improve communication at work and home. You can register here.

If you’re a Logan Health employee, remember you have access to a free coaching with me as part of your benefits! (BTW, it’s completely confidential. I don’t share who I work with, what role coaching clients are in, what department they work in, etc.) Let’s work together to strengthen your communication skills and reduce stress in your professional life. You can book a coaching session here.