5 Ways to Overcome the Challenge of Resistance That All Leaders Face
Most of us have two lives: the life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between the two stands Resistance.-Steven Pressfield (from the War of Art)
Resistance is something we all face, yet rarely call it by name. It is all around us and sometimes we don’t even realize that we are working against it. As leaders, we must lead the charge into the battle of resistance. Those we lead will follow us, so the stakes are high. With clear goals and team support, resistance can be conquered.There is not a silver bullet for the challenge Resistance presents. Here are a few ways to help you prevail:
Clarify the Goal
State clearly what it is you would like to achieve and why you would like to achieve it. Big or small this needs to be clear in your mind about what you are setting out to do and the importance it carries for you. Clarity in your goal will be your guiding light any time Resistance is pushing you off course.
Create Your Plan
This is the roadmap that will allow you to reach your ultimate destination. Few things are sustained or ritualized without a plan behind it. Write it out. Be specific so you know what you will be doing and when you will be doing it.
Work it Each Day
Review your roadmap daily and ensure you are on course. Keep your plan someplace where you can see it and review it easily. Read it, re-read it - remind yourself what this means to you. Ask, “what do I need to do today to move the plan forward?” Engaging in the plan each day keeps giving it life, strengthens your resolve, and reinforces the importance to you. Resistance hates that you never take a break away from pushing forward against it.
Small Steps are OK
Be prepared to take small steps to get to your desired outcome. Never lose sight of the bigger picture. You may have to take sideways steps, or even steps backward at times to ultimately push forward, that is OK. The original plan may hit a snag or something unplanned comes up. That is Resistance challenging you, trying to break you down, working to push you off track. Acknowledge that a detour is necessary and do the same thing your GPS would do – recalculate. Find the new route, a path that will lead you back to what you set out to achieve. Keep breaking your steps down to make them achievable, incorporate them into the plan, and keep looking forward.
Teamwork is Key
You do not need to battle Resistance alone. Success comes from the strength of working with your team of followers and peers. We all battle Resistance. Reach out to peers, friends, leaders, and mentors for feedback, support, and encouragement on your plan and the obstacles you face.The collective efforts of your knowing your goal, having a plan, a support system, and your follow-through will allow you to defeat the challenge of Resistance.How are you dealing with the Resistance you face? Share your thoughts in the comments section.