In my experience, as a Holistic Life Coach, we use all of the person to be with what is presenting itself in the moment, in this case resistance. Brining curiosity and compassion to the resistance, we ask powerful questions that support the Client in looking at resistance holistically. How does resistance show up in your body, if at all? What inner dialogue or self-talk creates resistance in your experience? What inner dialogue or self-talk could support you in moving through resistance? If resistance was here to teach you a life lesson, what might it be? A holistic approach to resistance can support the Client in receiving an expanded perspective that could open them up to using resistance for themselves versus against themselves.

Start by exploring their concerns—ask open-ended questions to uncover the reasons behind their resistance. This can help them articulate their fears or uncertainties, making them feel heard. Next, focus on the benefits of the proposed changes, linking them to their personal goals and values. Encourage small, incremental changes rather than overwhelming them with too much at once. Creating a clear action plan with achievable milestones can build their confidence as they experience success. Finally, celebrate small wins along the way to reinforce their progress, fostering a positive mindset and encouraging further commitment to change.

Facing a hesitant client? Let’s turn that resistance into collaboration! Start by building rapport—understand their concerns and motivations. Use active listening to show you genuinely care about their perspective. Present data and case studies demonstrating the benefits of the desired behavioral changes, making it relatable to their specific situation. Break down the changes into manageable steps, highlighting quick wins to build confidence. Finally, invite them to co-create a plan—when they feel involved, they’re more likely to embrace change. Together, you can transform apprehension into action!

When clients are hesitant to change, I believe it’s crucial to approach them with empathy and understanding. Building trust is the first step; if they feel safe and supported, they’re more likely to open up about their concerns. I focus on setting small goals as a key strategy. When big changes feel overwhelming, breaking them down into manageable steps makes the process feel less daunting and more achievable. Clarifying the benefits of change is also important. By explaining how these changes can positively impact their lives, I help them see the value in taking that step. Overall, my approach is about listening, motivating, and guiding clients gently through their journey of change.

If my client is hesitant to make behavioral changes, I would first get clear on what behavioral changes they’re hoping or needing to make, and what is driving them to want this change in the first place. We would spend time on the above to break down how their current behaviors are not serving/working for them and are instead impacting their life and/or relationships. I would then focus on my client’s desired outcome—what it would look like if behavioral changes were made. I would reinforce trust in the process, in our work together and how my client is always the lead—never taking them where they don’t want to go. I would then encourage my client to gently lean into the process, starting w/extremely small steps so they can get comfortable.