Introduction to the concept of resistance

Resistance to an idea, a change, or a set of conditions should not be interpreted as a simple "no".

Instead, it is a reaction motivated by reason and manifests itself as a response to an imposed idea or a situation of change.

It is important to keep in mind that resistance, by itself, is not a conflict and does not necessarily imply disrespect.

Nor is it considered a reaction to an attempt to diminish a person's rights or access to resources.

Although resistance can be uncomfortable to manage, it is essential to address it effectively.

To do so, it is necessary to understand the reasons that cause it.

To help you better understand this concept, the onion model of resistance has been created as a metaphor to explain the multiple layers that can hide behind initial resistance.

This model is based on the idea that, like an onion, resistance has several layers that we must "peel" off one by one.

At first, we may face a superficial objection, but underneath it hides another layer, and so on, until we get to the core of the problem.

As we get closer to the center of the onion, the layers become more intense and difficult to manage, making the situation more uncomfortable.

The goal of this model is not simply to identify the resistance, but to understand its source in order to address it at its root.

This is because often the real solution lies not on the surface, but in the underlying concerns or insecurities that give rise to the resistance in the first place.

Ignoring these deep layers will only cause the problem to resurface later on.

To successfully address resistance, it is critical to follow a step-by-step approach, addressing each layer as it manifests.

By doing so, you can get to the root cause and work on a lasting and meaningful solution.

The onion model not only helps diagnose resistance, but also provides a framework for planning a respectful and strategic response.

This will allow you to turn a potential obstacle into an opportunity for understanding and growth.

Summary

Resistance is not a simple "no," but a reason-driven reaction to an imposed change or idea. It is not a conflict in and of itself, nor is it disrespectful.

The onion model of resistance is a metaphor that explains its multiple layers. Like an onion, each layer must be "peeled" to get to the core of the problem.

The goal of the model is to understand the source of the resistance in order to address it at its root, since the real solution often lies in the underlying concerns, not in the surface objection.