Summary

In this episode of the Vibrant Soulful Wellness Podcast, host Annie Barrett discusses the common inner conflicts that arise when trying to make positive changes in our lives. Drawing on her experience as a health and wellness coach trained in Internal Family Systems (IFS), she emphasizes the importance of understanding and befriending the parts of ourselves that resist change. By cultivating curiosity and compassion towards these inner voices, listeners can navigate their resistance and move towards a more fulfilling and vibrant life. The episode concludes with an invitation for support through coaching and community resources.

Takeaways

• Resistance is a common experience for everyone.
• Understanding our inner parts can help us navigate change.
• Curiosity and compassion are key to overcoming resistance.
• There are no bad parts; all parts have developed for good reasons.
• Self-leadership involves recognizing and understanding our inner voices.
• Making changes in health and wellness can be challenging.
• Finding support and community can aid in personal growth.
• Normalizing inner conflict is essential for progress.
• Listening to our inner voices can lead to clarity and confidence.
• Flourishing comes from addressing internal obstacles first.

January often arrives with a surge of motivation—and the expectation that discipline and willpower will carry us forward. And yet, for many people, resistance, overwhelm, or self-doubt quietly follow.

This podcast episode explores why willpower alone rarely leads to lasting change, and what actually helps habits stick: curiosity, support, self-understanding, and compassion. If you’ve ever felt conflicted about change—or discouraged when motivation fades—this reflection offers a kinder, more sustainable way forward.

As we step into Thanksgiving week, this episode is an invitation to deepen your relationship with gratitude as not just as something you feel, but as a practice that changes your brain, your body, and your life.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What research reveals about gratitude’s impact on stress, resilience, and wellbeing

• Why gratitude is more than a positive emotion

• The two key components of gratitude identified by Dr. Robert Emmons

• How gratitude strengthens emotional regulation and connection

• Simple daily and weekly practices that help gratitude become a lasting habit

• How to use gratitude to transform how you relate to past challenges

You’ll also be guided through reflections that help you personally apply what you’re learning.

Resources Mentioned:

• Robert Emmons, PhD – leading researcher on gratitude

• Simple practices including Three Good Things, Taking in the Good, and Gratitude Letters

If you’d like to explore more tools for mindfulness, resilience, and seasonal wellbeing, visit Vibrant Soulful Wellness for coaching, yoga, and workplace wellness offerings.