Most of us have two lives. The life we live, and the unlived life within us. Between the two stands Resistance. ~Steven Pressfield
So begins the third chapter in Pressfield’s The War of Art. The author goes on to characterize this enemy of art (and of everything that calls forth our higher nature) as invisible, internal, insidious, implacable, impersonal, and infallible. And that’s only the beginning! “Resistance will tell you anything to keep you from doing your work,” Pressfield continues. “If you take Resistance at its word, you deserve everything you get. Resistance is always lying and always full of shit.”
I’m glad to add this book to my list of favorite books on writing and the creative process. I believe Resistance has a lot to do with why I blog. It is oh-so-much-easier than writing poetry. And even now, I want to get up and pour a glass of wine or pet the cat, instead of finishing this post, taking my clothes out of the dryer, and then walking on the treadmill.
The only cure, of course, is that old Nike slogan, “Just Do It.” The work itself is all that saves us from evil Resistance. But knowing that doesn’t make it any easier to get to work.
What’s your experience with that grumpy old bear, Resistance?
Only Moment 
Ahhhh, resistance. My old buddy. I find that I do much like what you are doing, I use words, my work, and goals to remind myself the just doing it is the only way it’s going to happen at all. I just came across you blog, I like it, and will be back. Thanks.
Glad you visited! See you again I hope.
I love your selection of quotes and how timely they are for me. I am meeting a lot of resistance within myself to a change I am trying to accomplish.
The bear is also called ‘Nafs’ or EGO:)
As for putting off writing on the blog, I have so much in my head that I can’t wait to get back from work to write, so I guess if you think of writing as entertainment or to clarify your thoughts it comes easier and you can pet the dog ‘resistance’ to a quiet mood.
I had a HUGE case of it today before taking Darwin out to do our pet therapy work. And then we went and it was all great and very fun. So there you go.
Yes, Donna, the resistance is much worse than the engagement. Thanks for your comment, asqfish.
My primary driver of resistance is a strong desire to avoid conflict, That’s the way I’m wired. If I do not sense a likelihood of uncomfortable, emotional conflict, I’m good with almost anything lawful.
Hi! I was surfing and found your blog post… nice! I love your blog. 🙂 Cheers! Sandra. R.