What holds you back is often what holds the door.

In Shadow Self Discovery, resistance is inevitable. You might find yourself procrastinating, rationalising, or going numb just when things start to feel real. But resistance isn’t proof you’re doing it wrong. Often, it’s proof you’re getting close to something that matters.

What Is Resistance?

Resistance is the inner “no” that rises when truth approaches.

It can show up as:

• “I’ll get to it later.”

• “This isn’t really a big deal.”

• “I’m too tired. Too busy. Too much.”

These are not excuses - they’re protective mechanisms. Resistance is usually trying to shield a part of you that once didn’t feel safe.

Why Resistance Matters

In Jungian work, resistance is often a threshold. It marks the edge of a breakthrough.

Instead of pushing through, ask:

• “What part of me is afraid?”

• “What might I discover if I stay with this?”

• “What kind of support would make this safer?”

Four Ways to Work With Resistance

1. Name It Without Judgment
   “I feel resistance right now.” That’s enough to soften its grip.

2. Get Curious, Not Forceful
   Ask: What is this resistance protecting?

3. Slow Down Instead of Powering Through
   Presence often dissolves resistance more than pressure ever could.

4. Acknowledge the Part That’s Scared
   Often, resistance is a younger part of you simply asking for safety.

Resistance as a Teacher

When you treat resistance as a message - not an obstacle - you begin to lead your inner life with compassion.

Integrating your Shadow isn’t about overcoming resistance. It’s about befriending it.

Takeaway

You’re not weak for feeling resistance. You’re wise for noticing it. The path forward often begins right where you hesitate.