I often joke that I have a Ph.D. in fear and resistance. Resistance and I were besties, hanging out day and night, my constant companion in the office. But as comforted as I felt at the time, I knew I had to end the relationship, and my dependence on it so I could actually go and do the things I kept talking about.
Always busy on the outside, but completely hiding from my big ideas on the inside.
How to identify Resistance
Resistance shows up whenever we try to do something that will stretch us or help us grow.
It’s easy to do the stuff that isn’t really important, but when it comes to doing the things that will move the needle for us, we struggle.
When we’re overwhelmed, uncertain or trying something for the first time, we suddenly feel the urge to check our inbox, fiddle with those Power Point slides, surf Facebook, check out Netflix or fold the washing.
How can I beat it?
You can’t, you have to work through it.
It’s strong and feisty and has had a lifetime to get to know you. It’s had years of practice of keeping you safe and small.
Rather than try and get rid of it completely, here’s what I’ve found helps me work through it.
Acknowledge
Acknowledge the resistance is there and name it. Give it a knowing nod, and get back to doing what you need to do, not what you’re tempted to do.
Shut down Facebook and back away from the laundry pile.
When you start to dive into consumption instead of creation, you know that resistance is standing close by.
Learn more about consumption vs creation here.
Accountability
If you really want to get something done, getting an accountability buddy is a great way to achieve results quickly. I seem to get more done when I’m accountable to someone.
You can start with business friends or groups you’re in, hire a coach or become part of a mastermind. Whatever you choose, having someone to check in with is a great way to keep you moving forward with your ideas.
Action
Nothing feeds self-doubt more than inaction. Not just talking about or thinking about an idea, actually doing something about it.
How many ideas or projects have you been talking about, but not started yet?
How many excuses have you found that can totally justify why?
Too terrified to share your idea? Try this instead.
It’s OK, we’re human and this happens all the time. But if you keep finding yourself distracted by the ‘busy’ stuff and not getting anywhere with your ideas, resistance is at play.
I’m sharing these with you because I want you to take action on your ideas. Your mind can’t give you the answers you need, only action can.
It’s like the all you can eat buffet… the more you avoid your to do list, the fatter and greedier your resistance becomes.
I don’t want you to get another 6 or 12 months down the track and realise you still haven’t achieved the goals you set or worked on the ideas that really excited you.
This invisible force may feel like it’s keeping you safe and supported, but in reality, it’s keeping you stuck by snapping you back into your comfort zone.
To see the resistance snap back in action, watch this short video.
It’s time for you to come out of hiding and bring your big ideas to life with this simple AAA strategy.
