Understanding and Overcoming Resistance
Have you ever felt stuck in something you didn’t want to do — complaining about it, feeling drained by it, and resenting it? That’s resistance.
Resistance often comes from a sense of obligation, from believing we have “no choice.” We keep going, but underneath, we feel unhappy, resentful, and weighed down.
The surprising truth is that by doing nothing, we are still making a choice — we just haven’t acknowledged it.
In this week’s discussion, we explore what resistance really is, how it quietly shows up in our lives, and how recognising our choices (even the ones we don’t like) can release the resistance and bring greater ease.
What is Resistance?
Resistance is the push-pull that happens when we continue doing something out of obligation or “should,” while at the same time resenting it. Unlike an inner conflict between two desires, resistance is about ignoring the fact that we do have a choice.
For example: staying in a job we dislike but feeling we “can’t leave.” The more we complain and find fault, the more energy resistance consumes.
How Resistance Shows Up
The signs can be mental, emotional, or physical. Here are some common ones:
Mental: Brain fog, overthinking, difficulty making decisions, or creative blocks.
Emotional: Mood swings, tearfulness, frustration, or irritability.
Physical: Fatigue, tension, headaches, or that feeling of being “dragged down” by the day.
Long-term resistance can weigh heavily on our health, so it’s important to recognise it early.
The Hidden Energy Drain
One of the biggest impacts of resistance is the energy it consumes.
When we focus on what’s wrong — complaining, blaming, or finding fault — our attention becomes stuck on the problem. This not only deepens the resistance, it leaves us with less energy for creativity, joy, and problem-solving.
The Power of Choice
The shift comes when we consciously acknowledge our choices.
Instead of saying, “I have no choice, I have to stay in this job,” try: “I choose to stay in this job because I want the income to support my lifestyle.”
That small shift changes everything. Suddenly, the resistance softens. Your mind starts to look for reasons to support the choice, and the energy drain begins to ease..
From Resistance to Flow
Flow doesn’t mean life is suddenly perfect or free of challenges.
It’s about moving with life rather than fighting against it.
When you’re in flow, there’s an ease — a willingness to be present with what is, while still taking steps forward. I will do a whole discussion and Blog on this soon.
Practical Ways to Soften Resistance
Check in with your body: Where are you holding tension? Breathe into that space.
Change your language: Shift “I have to” into “I choose to” and notice the difference.
Start small: Notice small and fleeting moments of resistance, like, not wanting to make a phone call or go to a party. Notice how it feels when the call is made or the party has finished and you’re home again.
Use reflection tools: Journaling can help untangle your thoughts and emotions.
Explore This Week’s Free Resources
🎥 Watch the full discussion on 🔗 YouTube or Listen on 🔗 Spotify
✏️ To help you recognise and release resistance, 🔗 Download the journalling worksheet
🧘 Experience the Guided Meditation for softening resistance and finding your flow🔗 Listen on YouTube or on 🔗 Spotify
If this post brought up thoughts or feelings you'd like to explore further, I’m here to support you. Book a one-on-one session to gently explore what’s unfolding within you.