Mentor Notes #81 - Feeling resistance? Your nervous system might be the reason.


Mentor Note #81

Mentor Note:

“The only way to do great work is to love what you do." - Steve Jobs

Lets Dive in...

Hello Reader,

There is so much talk about the nervous system and how it affects your success.

Have you ever noticed how every big creative leap comes with an undercurrent of discomfort?
Even when you want success, a new opportunity, or a breakthrough, it can feel overwhelming, even unsafe.

That’s not because you’re not ready. It’s because your nervous system is catching up to your expansion.

Discomfort is growth and with every step out of the comfort zone, your nervous system needs to be ready.

I first read about the nervous system and how it affects the body through a book by Dr Libby Weaver called 'Rushing Woman's Syndrome'. She broke down teh Para sympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems which I went on to study more in depth when I completed my certificate in Applied Neuroscience - Brain Health and Wellness.

Your nervous system is wired for familiarity, not necessarily success. When you start a new creative project, pivot in your career, or step into a bigger version of yourself, your body doesn’t know the difference between excitement and threat. It just knows: this is new.

That’s why self-sabotage, procrastination, or imposter syndrome often show up right when you’re levelling up. It’s not that you’re incapable, it’s that your body needs reassurance that this new level of visibility, abundance, or creativity is safe.

The Takeaway

Your next level of success isn’t just about strategy, it’s about energetic readiness.
Make your expansion feel safe, and your creativity will flow with more ease.

If you’re doing all the work, taking the courses, and still feel like you’re not propelling forward, it might be time to look at your nervous system. It can be the thing holding you back, keeping you on idle or stuck in low energy.

For me, I know I’m entering new growth territory when I start feeling sick or run down. My energy dips, and it’s like my body is warning me that something’s shifting. But over the years, I’ve learned to recognise these signs and not give in to them, even though there are still moments when I’m like, “Oh damn, it got me again.”
It requires deep self-awareness and knowing your body well enough to catch those subtle shifts in your wellbeing. That’s the key to moving past the resistance and embracing growth.

Something to Try

If you’re feeling resistance or overwhelm when stepping into something new, try this:

1 - Name the Feeling – Instead of pushing discomfort away, pause and name it. “This is resistance.”“This is excitement disguised as fear.” Naming it helps your brain process it as normal instead of a danger signal.

2 - Engage Your Body – Your nervous system lives in your body. Try:

  • 5-5-7 breathing (Inhale 5 sec, hold 5 sec, exhale 7 sec) to regulate stress.
  • A gentle shake-out (literally shake your hands, legs, body for 30 sec) to release stuck energy.
  • A power pose (stand tall, hands on hips, deep breath) to boost confidence before a big moment.

3 - Small Safe Expansions – Instead of diving into the deep end, introduce your nervous system to success bit by bit. If visibility is your block, start with short Instagram Stories. If pricing triggers fear, practice saying your new rate aloud daily.

4 - Rewire Your Story – When self-doubt creeps in, remind yourself:

  • “I am safe to grow.”
  • “It’s okay to not have all the answers yet.”
  • “I’ve handled uncertainty before, I can handle this.”

The goal is to make expansion feel safe, so you can create freely.

I hope you take a moment to notice where you expansion is affected by energy this week. I would love yo hear about it!

Until next week,

Much love,

Sally xx

Little Reminders:

Pause and Reset

Take a few minutes each day to calm your body and mind, especially before starting something new.

Embrace Discomfort:

When resistance shows up, instead of avoiding it, lean into it. It’s a sign of growth!

Go Slow - Take Small Steps

Rather than trying to leap, take small actions that feel safe and natural. Keep your momentum moving.


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Hi! I'm Sally Polihronas

I have 30+ years in the entertainment industry as a performer, popstar, producer and Director of live events and tours. Combined with my love for personal growth and studies in brain health my intention is to elevate your creative path through self discovery, wellness, artistry and business.

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