Journey from Resistance to Collaboration

Shikhar Agarwal
Jun 20
2 min read

Updated: Jun 26

From Tension to Trust: Navigating the Shift from Resistance to Collaboration

Resistance is not the enemy of progress — it’s often the beginning of it. When individuals or teams push back, disengage, or appear reluctant, it usually signals something deeper: fear of loss, past disappointments, unclear expectations, or simply not feeling heard.

In my work across sectors and cultures, I’ve seen this play out again and again. And what I’ve learned is this: collaboration isn’t something you can demand. It’s something you build — through understanding, trust, and shared purpose.

1. Resistance is Communication

Before we label resistance as ‘difficult,’ we need to pause and ask:

what is this behaviour trying to protect? Often, it points to:

A fear of not being valued in the new way of working
Concerns about psychological safety
Unspoken history or unresolved tension

Resistance isn’t opposition. It’s information.

2. Listen to Learn, Not to Fix

The move from resistance to collaboration begins with curiosity. When we stop trying to solve the person and start listening for what matters to them, the conversation changes. Empathy opens the door that logic alone can’t.

Trust isn’t built by solving problems. It’s built by being present with them.

3. Make It Safe to Say No

True collaboration only begins when people feel safe to disagree. Creating space for dissent, alternative views, and “not yet” allows authenticity to flourish. Ironically, the freedom to say no is what creates the conditions for a real yes.

4. Align Around Shared Purpose

People will resist being controlled — but they will commit to a purpose they believe in. Move beyond “compliance with process” and invite co-creation around outcomes that matter.

5. Create Small Wins Together

Nothing builds collaboration like momentum. Start small — a joint decision, a shared learning moment, a redefined ritual. Each act of success shifts the system from “us vs them” to “we.”