the inevitable dance of progress and pushback: why resistance means we're winning
I've been thinking about progress and its relationship with pushback. Not as separate forces, but as an inevitable dance - each step forward met with resistance, each resistance confirming impact.
The Progress Myth We've Been Sold
We're constantly sold this idea that progress is linear - a straight line upward. But in my years of working with women, women of colour and Black women, I've seen a different reality. Progress looks more like a complex pattern: forward, sideways, sometimes even backwards before surging ahead again.
It's something I've experienced personally. Those moments when a career move doesn't materialise as planned, when an initiative faces unexpected resistance, when progress feels frustratingly slow - these aren't failures. They're part of the pattern.
The Hidden Architecture of Pushback
Here's what fascinates me: pushback isn't random. It's carefully architected, often appearing in whispers rather than shouts:
"We just don't have the budget right now..." "Are you sure this focus on specific groups is fair?" "Maybe we should take a more neutral approach..." "Haven't we already made enough progress?"
These aren't just casual comments - they're system design at work. They're meant to make you question not just your approach, but your entire mission.
The Power of Being Resolute
I've learned something crucial: the closer you get to real change, the more sophisticated the resistance becomes. As you approach the centres of power, pushback often shifts from explicit opposition to subtle undermining. It's designed to make you question:
Have I wasted my time?
Is this effort worth it?
Am I pushing too hard?
Should I just be grateful for what's already been achieved?
This is exactly why being resolute in your values becomes non-negotiable.
Beyond Resilience: Strategic Protection
We often talk about resilience, but I've come to understand that protection is equally important. Think of it like this: resilience helps you weather the storm, but protection ensures you've got proper shelter while doing so.
This isn't just about surviving pushback - it's about thriving despite it. It means:
Building networks that understand and support your mission
Creating sustainable frameworks for long-term change
Developing multiple pathways to progress
Maintaining focus despite distracting resistance
The Truth About Progress
Here's what I want you to remember: if there were no real change happening, there would be nothing to push back against. The presence of resistance often directly correlates with the effectiveness of your progress.
Every time you face pushback, remember: you're not just participating in change - you're challenging concentrated power. And that's exactly where you need to be.
Want to explore more about how we can architect real change?
Watch or listen to Architecture of Change, where we deconstruct systems and design solutions for a more equitable future.
