Have you ever felt blocked from pursuing something you deeply desire? This resistance might manifest as fear, confusion, lethargy, or overwhelm. You might even resent the effort this new direction seems to demand.
When facing resistance to positive change, how do you uncover the truth of the situation? How can you determine if what’s stopping you is a part of yourself that needs healing, or if it’s a signal that this path isn’t meant for you?
The simplest solution is to temporarily set aside the idea and observe what happens next. Do you feel relief, a painful sense of loss, or discover an aspect of yourself that refuses to give up?
Back in the 1990s, I discussed my desire to teach and my discomfort with large groups with a spiritual teacher. He fully supported me in abandoning the idea, saying, “Your brain may not work that way. That was the case for me, and now I focus on private sessions and small groups.”
Yet, even with his blessing, something within me refused to let go of my dream to teach.
Now I recognize that a strong part of me was called to teaching, and I can embrace the joy of serving in a way that expresses my passion.
Since this “just try dropping it” method is the easiest way to resolve inner conflict, I recommend trying it first.
Another approach to this dilemma is to identify the various parts of yourself that are resisting your heart’s calling. Take time to understand their concerns. What do they need to feel at ease? Try generating practical solutions to move forward.
If a part of you fears failure, consider seeking a mentor or taking a class to better prepare yourself. Break your idea into smaller, more manageable steps.
If a part of you is afraid of rejection, find at least three people who support and believe in your goals.
Not every concern stems from fear.
Sometimes, a part of you may resist change to ensure you don’t lose touch with your values as you grow.
I once worried that serving large groups might inflate my ego, so I made an agreement with myself to regularly check in with my heart. This helps me stay on course.
Finally, your new direction won’t gain traction without at least one part of you championing it. If you only find resistance, boredom, or a lack of excitement, it’s likely that it’s not your path to pursue.
What have you discovered about yourself?