You:

• resist being told what to do

• reject routine or structure

• dislike external deadlines and rules

• struggle with collaborative work if you feel micromanaged

• abandon tasks out of frustration

• delay tasks out as a way to push back against expectations

Why it happens:

Resistance to authority or external expectations, or feeling overwhelmed by what’s being asked of you.

What to try:

• reframe the task as your choice. Instead of focusing on external pressure, ask yourself: Why do I want to do this? Shift the task from something you have to do to something you choose to do for your own benefit.

• set your own rules and deadlines. Give yourself control over how and when you complete the task. Create your own deadlines and approach, rather than feeling like you’re following someone else’s schedule.

• focus on the bigger picture. Ask yourself: How does this task fit into my goals? Connecting the task to your long-term ambitions can make it feel less like an external demand and more like a personal step forward.

• make it more flexible. If rigid plans make you resist, allow room for flexibility. Give yourself options for when, where, or how you complete the task, so you don’t feel boxed in.

• turn it into a challenge. Make the task engaging by setting a challenge, can you finish before a timer runs out? Can you do it in a unique way? Adding an element of competition or fun can help reduce resistance.

• focus on the consequences of not doing it. Remind yourself: What happens if I don’t do this? Rather than feeling like someone is forcing you to act, consider how delaying will impact you, your time, your freedom, your progress.

If you would like help getting things done, then take a look at how I can help.