34. The Surprising Reason You Expect Criticism (And How to Shift It)

Ever notice how quickly you assume someone will be disappointed, upset, or critical when something goes wrong, even before they've said a single word? You’re not the only one! In this episode, I'm sharing an unexpected experience my husband Christopher and I had on a dark Montana highway that revealed just how differently two people can respond to the same event, and how a certain type of support can help. Past experiences can condition us to anticipate blame, rejection, or conflict, even when the present situation is different. These expectations can affect our confidence, our relationships, and how we handle difficult conversations at work. I'll show you why you may keep expecting criticism, what this means for healthcare leaders who want to build trust on their teams, and a simple, trauma-informed exercise to help you begin responding differently. In This Episode 00:00 – Why You May Expect Criticism Even When No One Is Criticizing You 02:15 – The Hidden Reason Two People React Differently to the Same Crisis 05:00 – How an Unexpected Response Can Begin Changing Old Expectations 06:00 – What Leaders Can Do When Employees Expect Blame 07:15 – The 90-Second Exercise That Reveals What You're Conditioned to Expect Resources Focused Leadership Coaching: Explore my eight-week private coaching program for leaders who want to approach difficult conversations with greater confidence. Other Episodes You’ll Love Always on Edge at Work? Do This to Get Out of Survival Mode Fast What’s Really Driving Conflict on Your Team (And Why Many Leaders Miss It) Next Time The holiday season is approaching, and we're exploring healthy boundaries. I'll be sharing a conversation in which I was interviewed about cultivating boundaries that support stronger relationships at work, so you can pause before you please and provide support without removing responsibility. Have a question you'd like answered on the show? Click here to send me a message. Love this show? Leave a review to say thanks, or share it with your colleagues. ... More Resources for You: Explore Dr. Annie's Senior Leadership Coaching Programs Get the (free!) Drama-Free Leadership Starter Kit so you can eliminate interpersonal drama on your team. Connect with Dr. Annie online: LINKEDIN | WEBSITE ©Ⓟ 2025-2026 Annie Campanile, LLC. All rights reserved.