"Notice your resistance, and let it go"

Imagine you're sitting at a coffee shop, chatting with a friend about that pesky feeling when you're supposed to do something but just don't want to. You know, like tackling that mountain of laundry or starting on that big work project. That's essentially what this quote is getting at. It's about recognizing when you're resisting something and then making a conscious effort to release that resistance.

Let's break it down. The core idea here is quite simple: be aware of when you're pushing back against something—whether it's an emotion, a task, or a situation—and then consciously decide to let that pushback go. It's a bit like mindfulness, where the first step is to notice what's happening inside you, and the next step is to change your response.

Historically, this idea has roots in various philosophies and practices, like Buddhism and Stoicism. These traditions emphasize the importance of recognizing our internal reactions and choosing how we respond to them. It's about gaining control over our minds instead of letting our minds control us.

Now, let’s make this practical with a real-life example. Picture Sarah, a writer who's been putting off her novel for months. Every time she sits down to write, she feels this wave of resistance. It's like a wall she just can't get over. But instead of forcing herself to push through, she takes a step back and notices this resistance. She feels it, acknowledges it, and accepts that it's there. Then, with a few deep breaths, she releases it—maybe not completely, but enough to start typing a few words. Over time, this practice helps her make consistent progress on her novel.

How can you apply this wisdom in your life? Start small. Next time you feel that familiar knot in your stomach—whether it's about doing a chore, dealing with a difficult emotion, or facing a challenging task—pause. Take a moment to notice it. Don't judge it, just observe. Then, take a few deep breaths and imagine the resistance melting away. It won't disappear instantly, but with practice, you'll get better at letting go.

Here's a relatable story. Think about a kid learning to ride a bike. At first, they're scared. They resist getting on the bike because they're afraid of falling. But with a little encouragement, they notice their fear, acknowledge it, and decide to give it a try. They wobble and maybe even fall a few times. But with each attempt, they let go of a bit more of that resistance. Eventually, they're riding smoothly, the wind in their hair, and that initial fear feels like a distant memory.

That's the power of noticing your resistance and letting it go. It's not about erasing fear, discomfort, or procrastination. It's about acknowledging these feelings and deciding they don't have to control you. So next time you're stuck, remember Sarah and that kid on the bike. Notice that resistance, take a deep breath, and let it go. You might be surprised at how much easier things become.