Yes, brute force. I know about that.
My shields are the most powerful shields in the whole world

.. Not.. Actually, I don't have shields, but don't tell anyone

Although I don't have shields, I have known about the art of psionics for several years.. I think I am a natural empath, feeling peoples emotions.. And I always have the feeling that people can read me. But I manage okay without shields. It's not like im under constant attack..
If I were to make a shield, would it be enough to just focus my awareness around my whole body, holding my focus long enough with intent, to make a shield around me? Is it really necessary to draw out energy first?
And if I were to make a shield, I think I have peers that may take it down again, for im really not that experienced..
I have had an experience, could you or another verify that: When you are unshielded, people's links go through your head, to your plane of thought, then go down to the heart, where it is attached. So first into the head, then down to the heart. When you are shielded (yes I think I actually have had one

) then the links just attach to the shield.
Maybe the way for me was to train without shields, so I don't rely on shields too heavily.