#83
Our comfort zone doesn’t always look like we expect it to appear, which sometimes makes it difficult to recognise we’re in it. That’s what gives it the power to keep us distracted for so long – in a state of resistance.
What does this internal resistance feel like? Here is a quick definition from Seth Godin,
“Resistance is an elusive and wily force, an emotion that will conspire to block us, undermine us, or, at the very least, stall us in the pursuit of work that matters. Resistance focuses on bad outcomes because it wants to distract us from the work at hand. Resistance seeks reassurance for the same reason.”
Whether we commit to growth in our personal or professional life, there will be resistance. Do you know how to bargain with yourself to overcome the resistance?
The first step to overcoming this internal resistance is awareness. Recognising its evolving patterns is one of the most helpful skills you can develop.
For example, imagine you’re running on a treadmill. At some point your heart will start beating faster in your chest and your thoughts might jump to the conclusion you’re reaching your limits. But that’s only partially true.
Here’s the thing – your limits yesterday are almost 100% different today. This goes both ways.
Some days you might have more energy to complete tasks the previously took you much longer (perhaps due to your ongoing dedication to practicing new skills).
Other days you might find yourself called to rest and focus on being instead of doing (perhaps due to a lack of sleep or changes in your diet).
When the thought “I don’t think I can do this” pops into your mind, investigate it further. Is it a form of resistance, or do you actually need to take a break to restore your balance?
Once you know the answer to that question, the second step after awareness is to make a choice and stick to it.
