Defensiveness

Notice when you feel the need to defend yourself. What are you avoiding? What are you denying, rejecting? 
What if you accepted yourself as you are - flawed. Wouldn't that be a relief? When you feel like defending yourself or your stance, just say 'yes'. 
This does not require you to take on others' opinions about you. When you accept yourself completely, when you embrace your flaws, others' criticism has no power. Any reaction you have points to something that you judge about yourself, something that needs your attention, your compassion and acceptance.
"You're wrong"
Yes
"You're selfish"
Yes
"You're weak"
Yes
I don't need to fight your opinion. I know who I am.
There's no conflict. Nobody loses and you gain peace.