Overcoming Resistance: Turning Barriers into Stepping Stones

Overcoming Resistance: What Holds Me Back and How I Move Forward

As an entrepreneur, resistance often feels like an unwelcome companion—showing up just when you’re trying to get things done. Whether it’s a mental block, external circumstances, or a lack of energy, resistance can feel overwhelming. But the way forward is always a blend of understanding, focus, and adaptability.

Gratitude for the Right Environment

Today, I’m reminded of the importance of having the right space to work. Leaving the house to work at Sam’s office—a clean, focused environment with white walls and no distractions—has been a game-changer. This physical separation between work and home helps me maintain boundaries and keeps work-related stress from bleeding into my personal life.

For entrepreneurs, this boundary is critical. Without it, the pressures of work can creep into every corner of life, making it harder to recharge. A simple door, a dedicated workspace, or even a new location can create the mental clarity needed to tackle the day’s tasks.

 
Shifting Focus: What Holds Me Back

Resistance often starts with mindset. While external circumstances can create challenges, much of what holds us back is internal. The key is asking: Is this something I can control, or is it something I need to let go?

Recently, while staying in Niagara Falls at my partner’s family home, I realized how much of my energy was drained by things beyond my control. Without our own kitchen, consistent routines, or comfortable spaces, I felt scattered and unproductive. But instead of dwelling on the things I couldn’t change, I adapted. I focused on what I could control: going to the gym, managing my sleep schedule, and finding moments to get work done. It wasn’t perfect, but it kept me moving forward.

Now that I’m back home in Dartmouth, where our routines and environment are entirely within our control, resistance feels lighter. With a stable foundation—our own kitchen, bed, and workspace—progress comes more naturally. The barriers are fewer, and the path forward is clearer.

 
Adapting Around Resistance

When resistance shows up, I’ve learned to ask two critical questions:

Can I control this?
If yes, I focus my energy on addressing it. Often, the hardest and heaviest tasks are the most important to tackle.

If not, how can I adapt?
Letting go of what’s beyond my control frees up mental energy to focus on what matters.

For example, when circumstances weren’t ideal during my recent travels, I adapted by prioritizing small, achievable steps—exercising, eating mindfully, and finding even small blocks of time to work. Now, back in a more controlled environment, I can build on that momentum by creating productive habits: sleeping well, waking early, preparing breakfast, and starting my workday with clarity.

 
Encouragement to Move Forward

Resistance will always exist, but it’s not insurmountable. It’s a signal to evaluate what’s in your control and where you can adapt. By focusing on the controllable aspects of your day—your routines, environment, and mindset—you can chip away at the barriers and make meaningful progress.

Today, my focus is on splitting the day into manageable chunks, staying productive during paid hours, and prioritizing self-care to prevent burnout. It’s about balancing the big picture with the small, actionable steps that move the needle forward.

So, if you’re feeling resistance, ask yourself: What can I control, and how can I adapt? Then focus on the heaviest, most meaningful task—the one that might feel overwhelming but holds the most value. Progress comes from persistence, one step at a time.

Remember: Resistance is a part of the process, not a roadblock. With clarity, adaptability, and focus, we can move through it and create something meaningful. Let’s keep moving forward.

Are you facing resistance in your journey or looking for strategies to move forward? Let’s connect! Reach out to me—I’d love to hear your story and explore how we can navigate challenges together