This last week, I coached a variety of executive women, all of whom have upcoming presentations this month. These happen to be forward-thinking women in fields that range from health care to sales, corporate communications to insurance.

As we discussed the upcoming events, what struck me was that many of the executive women mentioned that they will face a certain level of resistance in their audience.

Those to whom they are speaking are resistant to change; and yet each of these women is brilliant, seeing a viable and better future guaranteed to foster growth: an increase in creativity AND profit; improved organizational structures and systems (reduced burnout and turnover); a more meaningful connection with clients, customers and patients; and greater life balance.

The positive nature of these projected (and very likely) outcomes is undeniable.

As I mused this week on those “resistant to change” wondering why the knuckleheads in the audience were bound to be so blocked,

I had to catch myself and look within.

None of us likes to think of ourselves as resistant. We love to make it a “THEY” situation.

The truth is, there is some corner in each of our personalities from which we resist a new idea.

Mark Knopfler, the superb songwriter and former lead guitarist for Dire Straits has a great line in one of his songs, Solid Rock.

“When you point your finger ’cause your plans fell through, you’ve got 3 more fingers, pointing back at you.”

Fingers pointing – 1 away, 3 at you.

What is that for you?

What part of your identity do you cling to so vociferously that your argument and vehemence start to smack of defensiveness and fear?

What wall won’t you move?

For me, it was social media. It took me a long time to get on to Twitter and Facebook and to start blogging…I’m just beginning to figure it all out.

What is it for you?

On what issues are you the curmudgeon? With your kids? With a new idea someone suggests to you that you immediately denounce? Is it a new person in your office? A new way of doing things?

It’s easy to spot resistance when you’re not in the middle of it.

Being discerning is one thing.

Being defensive is another.

Try meeting the next new idea that comes your way with an open heart, an open hand, and an open mind.  In the world of “The Prism Effect”, there is a full spectrum worth exploring. No doubt, it’s the start of being able to “Engage Your Brilliance.”