We need to help our clients understand resistance and what it takes to work with it. If our clients begin to understand the potential energy in resistance and how their actions can exacerbate problems, then they can look at our methods differently. Their heightened awareness of what it takes to get people excited about change will help them evaluate the potential usefulness of approaches we recommend. My work over the past few years has focused almost exclusively on resistance. Here are some of my thoughts.
Resistance is any force that slows or stops movement.
People resist in response to something. Resistance is a natural part of change. It protects people from harm. I have identified three levels of resistance. The better we are at identifying each of these levels, the easier it will be to assist clients in creating strategies appropriate for the resistance they face.