When a coaching client withdraws, becomes defensive, or declines support, it can be difficult to know how to respond.
This free coaching toolkit explores fear and unmet core human needs as possible influences and offers reflection prompts and practical moves for staying in relationship.
How to Use This Tool:
Begin by reflecting on your own reactions when you perceive resistance.
Consider which fears or needs may be activated for you, then explore what you don’t yet understand about your client’s experience.
Use the prompts to cultivate compassion and curiosity.
Choose a response that supports connection, such as listening, asking what support would help, or using ACE to explore emotions.
Let your client’s perspective inform your next move.
Related Resources:
- Where Resistance Lives: Consider how emotions, relationships, and power may shape resistance.
- The Three Moves Framework: Explore how to notice resistance, get curious, and choose a response.
- Coaching Resistance Workshop: Practice responding to resistance with approaches that support agency and growth.
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