1. Recognize and Welcome:

Simply notice when resistance arises in you. This awareness itself is a powerful step. Silently acknowledge it: “Ah, resistance is here.” Welcome it as a guest, without judgment.

2. Pause and Breathe:

Take a moment to pause. Take a deep breath. This creates a small space between the arising of resistance and your response to it.

3. Feel it Fully:

Allow yourself to fully feel the resistance. Where do you sense it? What are its qualities? This grounding in direct experience can prevent getting caught in mental narratives.

4. Inquire:

Briefly investigate the resistance. What beliefs or assumptions are underlying it? What is it trying to protect or avoid? This quick self-inquiry can provide valuable insights.

5. Remember Your True Nature:

Recall that you, as awareness, are not this resistance. You are the space in which resistance appears. Rest as this open awareness for a moment.

6. Use it as a Pointer:

View your resistance as a signal. It might be pointing to an unconscious bias, a limiting belief, or an area for exploration. Make a mental note to explore this later.

7. Model Openness:

You might share your experience with the client. For example: “I notice I’m feeling resistance here. Let’s explore this together.” This can deepen the relationship.

8. Refocus on the Client:

Gently bring your attention back to the client. Your resistance doesn’t need to be resolved. Trust that by acknowledging it, you’ve already shifted your relationship to it.

9. See the Mirror:

Recognize that your resistance might be mirroring something in the client or the coaching relationship. This can offer insights into the coaching process.

10. Use it as a Tool:

If relevant, use your resistance as a tool in the session. For example, you might say, “I’m noticing some resistance in myself. I wonder if there’s something similar happening for you?”

11. Practice Self-Compassion:

Remember that resistance is a normal human experience. Offer yourself the same compassion you would offer a client.

12. Stay Curious:

Maintain an attitude of curiosity about your resistance. This open, inquisitive stance can prevent you from becoming entangled in it.

13. Notice What’s Not Resistant:

While acknowledging the resistance, also notice what in you isn’t resistant. This can help you stay grounded in your wider, non-resistant nature.

14. Use a Silent Mantra:

If helpful, use a brief mental reminder like “allowing” or “opening” to reorient yourself to an attitude of acceptance.

15. Trust the Process:

Remember that both your resistance and the client’s are part of coaching. Trust that by being present with what’s arising, you’re facilitating transformation.