When someone tells you that you're "guarded," they are likely referring to your behavior or communication style, suggesting that you tend to be cautious, reserved, or protective about revealing your thoughts, emotions, or personal information to others. Being guarded means you may have a tendency to keep certain aspects of yourself private and not readily share them with others.
Some possible traits or behaviors associated with being guarded include:
Emotional Reservedness: You may find it challenging to express your emotions openly or may prefer to keep your feelings to yourself rather than discussing them with others.
Difficulty Trusting Others: You might have a tendency to be cautious about trusting people until you get to know them well and feel comfortable with them.
Limiting Personal Disclosure: Being guarded can involve not sharing too much personal information about yourself with others, especially with acquaintances or people you don't know well.
Self-Protective Behavior: You may have a tendency to avoid vulnerability or situations where you could be emotionally hurt or taken advantage of.
Hesitant to Show Vulnerability: You might be reluctant to let others see your weaknesses or struggles, as it can make you feel exposed or at risk.
It's important to note that being guarded is not necessarily a negative trait, and it may be a natural response to past experiences or a way of protecting oneself from potential harm. However, in certain situations, being overly guarded might hinder building close relationships or hinder effective communication.
If you are not aware that you come across as guarded, it may be helpful to reflect on your interactions with others and consider feedback from those around you. It's possible that this behavior might be subconscious or unintentional, and understanding it can lead to personal growth and improved relationships. Additionally, if you feel that being guarded is causing difficulties in your social or personal life, you may want to consider talking to a therapist or counselor to explore these feelings and work on ways to establish healthier connections with others.