When someone takes things personally, this usually means that they feel as though they're under attack. When you get offended or upset by what people say or do, because you think the actions are directed at you...you may feel as though your character, abilities, competence, or personal achievements are in question and may start to get defensive as a result. People usually take things personally if something hits a nerve and triggers their past unhealed wounds of rejection, abandonment, or betrayal,