Starting a new goal or habit is always exciting, but it can also bring challenges … especially when we have to face our own internal resistance! The good news is that this resistance is actually completely normal, and understanding why it happens can make all the difference in achieving your success.
Why Resistance Shows Up
Our subconscious mind loves routine and familiarity. Even if our current habits aren’t serving us well, they offer a sense of predictability and safety. So, when we try to introduce change, it disrupts this comfort zone and triggers resistance.
This is why it’s so important to anticipate resistance when you start a new habit or work toward a goal. Knowing that it’s a natural reaction to change gives you the chance to prepare for it and work through it as it comes up.
How to Tackle Resistance
1. Set clear, achievable goals: One of the most effective tools to reduce resistance is using the SMART framework. Here’s how it works:
Specific: Know exactly what you want to achieve.
Measurable: Have a way to track your progress.
Achievable: Make sure it’s realistic for you.
Relevant: Ensure it aligns with your values.
Time-bound: Set a deadline to keep you on track.
Setting clear goals in this way removes any confusion and makes your path forward much clearer. It can also reduce feelings of overwhelm, which often triggers resistance.
2. Start small: Big goals can feel overwhelming and often lead to resistance. That’s why I believe the best approach is to start with a smaller, more manageable goal. Once you’ve built that habit, you can gradually expand on it – always remembering that consistency is the key to success
3. Focus on the process, not just the outcome: Shift your focus from the end result to enjoying the journey. By concentrating on the steps you’re taking and the progress you’re making, you can ease the pressure of a big, distant goal – often a source of resistance – and make the process more enjoyable.
4. Be kind to yourself: Slip-ups happen, and that’s perfectly okay! Rather than criticising yourself, try approaching setbacks with curiosity. This mindset allows you to learn, grow, and get back on track without feeling defeated. We’ll dive deeper into this in next week’s blog post, as it’s one of the most important keys to making new habits stick
5. Create a support system: Share your goals with friends, family, or mentors who can cheer you on and hold you accountable. Having a support system not only helps you stay motivated but also makes the journey more enjoyable and less isolating, which can ease the resistance that comes from feeling overwhelmed or alone.
6. Visualise success: Imagine how great it will feel once you’ve achieved your goals. Creating a mental picture of success can fuel motivation and make your goals feel more attainable, helping to counter the doubts and fears that often fuel resistance.
Remember…
Resistance is a natural response to change, but it doesn’t have to derail your progress. By anticipating it, understanding its causes, and applying the strategies I’ve shared, you can move through it successfully.
Stay tuned for next week’s post, where we’ll explore self-compassion and why it’s so fundamental to achieving long-term success.
Kate x
