Inner Resistance

What is Inner Resistance?

Inner resistance is the emotional, psychological, or behavioural opposition we experience when facing change, growth or action—even when that change aligns with our goals and values. It manifests as a mental and emotional barrier that prevents progress in areas such as career, relationships, health, healing or personal development.

Common forms include:

• Procrastination
• Self-sabotage
• Avoidance
• Fear of failure or success
• Perfectionism
• Negative self-talk
• Indecisiveness
• Emotional numbing

Though frustrating, inner resistance is not a sign of weakness or lack of motivation—it is a protective mechanism rooted in survival psychology.

Root Causes of Inner Resistance

Inner resistance often originates from a combination of psychological, neurological and emotional factors:

1. Fear of Change or the Unknown

The brain—especially the amygdala—is wired to prioritise safety and familiarity. Any deviation from the known, even positive change, can be perceived as a threat, triggering resistance.

2. Childhood Conditioning

Unresolved childhood trauma, emotional neglect or learned helplessness can create internal beliefs such as:

• “I’m not good enough.”
• “I don’t deserve success.”
• “If I try, I might fail and be rejected.”

3. Cognitive Dissonance

This occurs when there’s a conflict between what we believe and what we’re trying to do. For example, wanting success while believing we’re unworthy of it creates internal resistance.

4. Limiting Beliefs and Core Wounds

Subconscious beliefs about self-worth, identity and possibility—often formed early in life—can create resistance when we attempt to act beyond those beliefs.

5. Fear of Responsibility or Exposure

Resistance can mask a fear of the responsibilities that come with success or a fear of being visible and vulnerable.

6. Low Self-Efficacy

Coined by psychologist Albert Bandura, this is the belief that we’re not capable of producing the results we desire, which leads to avoidance and stagnation.

Impact of Inner Resistance

If left unexamined, inner resistance can profoundly affect mental and physical health, relationships and overall life satisfaction.

Psychological Effects

• Chronic stress and anxiety
• Low self-esteem and confidence
• Emotional burnout
• Depression and hopelessness
• Impostor (Deceiver) syndrome

Behavioural Effects

• Missed opportunities
• Inconsistent performance
• Avoidance of important tasks or relationships
• Remaining in toxic environments
• Difficulty making decisions or committing

Physiological Effects

• Increased cortisol levels (stress hormone)
• Disrupted sleep patterns
• Tension, headaches and fatigue
• Weakened immune function due to chronic stress

Benefits of Addressing Inner Resistance

When we work through our resistance instead of fighting or suppressing it, we unlock the potential for powerful growth and transformation.

1. Enhanced Self-Awareness – Uncovers hidden fears, unmet needs and limiting narratives.
2. Emotional Resilience – Builds tolerance for uncertainty, vulnerability and emotional friction.
3. Empowered Action – Enables aligned, confident action with clarity and purpose.
4. Improved Mental and Physical Health – Reduces anxiety, improves sleep and strengthens the immune system.
5. Fulfilment and Flow – Leads to deep immersion in meaningful tasks and a sense of satisfaction (as described by psychologist Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi).

Consequences of Not Dealing with Inner Resistance

Ignoring or suppressing resistance often leads to a life lived in survival mode rather than purpose and growth. Potential consequences include:

• Stagnation – Remaining stuck in repetitive, unproductive cycles
• Regret – Missing out on dreams, relationships or goals
• Mental Health Issues – Chronic anxiety, shame, frustration or depression
• Identity Crisis – Growing disconnect between who we are and who we want to become
• Relationship Strain – Undermines communication, intimacy and trust
• Addictive Coping Mechanisms – Resistance may be numbed through food, social media, overworking or substance use

Tools for Working Through Inner Resistance (Science-Based)

1. Mindfulness & Meditation – Increases awareness of internal blocks without judgement
2. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – Identifies and restructures limiting beliefs and thought patterns
3. Somatic Therapy (Including Massage Therapy) – Releases trauma and resistance stored in the body
4. Journaling – Explores subconscious fears and supports emotional processing
5. Inner Child Work – Reconnects with and heals parts of us that developed resistance as a survival strategy
6. Motivational Interviewing – Explores ambivalence toward change compassionately
7. Gradual Exposure – Builds self-trust by facing fears in manageable steps
8. Coaching or Therapy – Provides external support, accountability and guidance

Final Thought

Inner resistance is not the enemy—it is a compass pointing to where healing and transformation are needed. When we learn to sit with resistance, listen to it and work through it with compassion and intention, we transform what once held us back into the very force that propels us forward.