What is Mental Resistance?
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You know you need to do something (work, exercise, make an appointment) but you just can’t seem to get yourself to do it, sound familiar? This called mental resistance, it can show up in the form of both perfectionism and procrastination.
What is resistance?
Resistance is the psychological reaction to change. It is the willingness consciously or unconsciously to grow. It consists of the emotional roadblocks that stop us from getting what we want or need.
How Can Resistance Disrupt Your Life?
You may not always be aware of resistance when it's happening because it happens on a subconscious level. This is why it is so hard to identify at times.
Some indicators include:
-Poor work performance.
-Failed commitments.
-Altered mood.
-Unproductive interactions with others.
-Tiredness
-Lethargy
-Slowed movement patterns.
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Neuroscience and Resistance
Three parts of the brain play a key role when it comes to resistance. The Prefrontal Cortex processes new ideas and loves new information but it fatigues quickly. When we experience something new the brain gets excited and requires this part of your brain to work harder which can trigger discomfort.
The Amygdala is responsible for your fight or flight response to stress, danger or the unknown. When activated feelings of fear and danger come up. This can provoke feelings for denial, confusion and depression.
Basal Ganglia is the part of the brain that stores routines that already exist, our behaviors are deeply rooted in our brains. Your thoughts and behaviors are automated on a subconscious level. If the brain senses fear or danger it reverts to the stored habits.
Resistance is a form of your brain trying to keep you safe.
What can you do?
Identify the resistance, this requires you to be honest with yourself.
Remember why you want to change this resistance. This will help you to remain committed to your goals.
Take action! Don’t allow old habits to prevent you from taking the next step.