Fighting the Resistance

Something happens when you begin creating new habits. You’re cruising along, seeing positive change, enjoying the momentum, when all of a sudden, something inside you rises up in opposition.

Fear slams on the brakes and says, “What the hell are you doing?! This is scary. And uncomfortable. Don’t change – things are fine the way they are.”

And it’s totally normal.

There’s a lot of momentum building in my life right now. I feel like I’m on the cusp of something huge. I’m so excited to run forward into what’s coming, knowing that whatever it is will be awesome.

But then there’s the resistance, trying to hold me back and convince me that maybe all of this change isn’t such a good idea after all. Maybe my old life, the rut, is a better place to be.

Sometimes I can fight this feeling pretty easily. I work on a small project, pray or create something beautiful. This usually clears the air and leaves me feeling ready to go again.

And there are other days when everything just seems daunting and insurmountable. Even changing a diaper (not the poopy kind) seems like a huge chore.

What then? What do you do to prevent from losing the momentum and sliding back into the Rut of Crappiness (insert title for what you’re moving out of here)?

I don’t know about you, but I have a few things that help. Things that I sometimes have to force myself to do because the resistance is so strong. (I wasn’t going to write a post with a list, but that’s just how my brain works).

Go outside – Soak up some sunshine and feel the wind on your face. Take in the beauty around you and give thanks for all you see.

Talk to a friend – Sometimes you just need to spill to a buddy. Find a listening ear to help you talk through your feelings and process what’s going on in your head.

Connect with God – Maybe you feel this resistance because things are out of balance, particularly this area. I know this happens to me. Pray. Read. Sing. Don’t ignore the spiritual side.

Enjoy some solitude – One of my greatest needs is alone time. I’m such an introvert. Lately, it’s been pushed aside as I work and enjoy the relationships I’m blessed to have. But as much as I love being with my loved ones, I still need time alone to recharge.

Get active – Exercise is such a great way to get motivated again. Make it something you enjoy like a brisk walk, hike, yoga or a bike ride.

Create something – Make something beautiful, be it a drawing or piece of jewelry. Use your hands to make something that makes you smile.

Help someone – One of the books we’re reading the kids had this awesome quotation: “If you can’t think of anything to do, help someone.” I think the same goes when you’re feeling resistance. Take the attention off of yourself for a bit and come back later with a fresh perspective.

Usually one of these will do the trick. Sometimes it takes two or three. And if you get through them all and still feel kinda blah, you’re probably so tired you can go to bed and wake up the next day feeling refreshed and energized.

What do you do to fend off the resistance?

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This post was written by

Nina Nelson – who has written 205 posts on Shalom Mama.

Nina Nelson is a freelance writer, mama to four and wife to one. She writes regularly about minimalism, living more sustainably and living more intentionally. She loves reading, snuggling and giggling at miniature horses.

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