The quote, “Resistance to change doesn’t exist; what exists is non-rational, non-functional self-preservation” suggests that when individuals resist change, it is not because they are inherently against change itself, but because they are trying to protect themselves in ways that may not be rational or functional.
This quote is essentially about fear and survival instincts. People often resist change because they fear the unknown, and this fear can manifest as a survival instinct. The human brain is wired to prefer known risks over unknown ones, so it often perceives change as a threat. This results in what Peterson calls “non-rational, non-functional self-preservation” – actions or attitudes that may not make sense logically or serve any practical purpose, but are driven by an instinct to preserve the status quo and avoid perceived threats.
The “non-rational” part of this quote refers to the fact that this resistance to change often isn’t based on logical reasoning. People might resist change even when it’s clear that the change would be beneficial. This is because the fear of the unknown can be stronger than the desire for improvement.
The “non-functional” part of the quote suggests that this resistance to change often doesn’t serve any practical purpose. In fact, it can be counterproductive, preventing people from adapting and growing.
This quote can be applied in today’s world in many ways. In the context of personal development, it suggests that if you find yourself resisting change, it might be helpful to examine whether your resistance is based on a rational assessment of the situation or if it’s driven by non-rational, non-functional self-preservation. Recognizing this can be the first step towards overcoming your resistance and embracing change.
In a broader societal context, this quote could be applied to various forms of resistance to progress and innovation. For example, resistance to technological advancements, social changes, or new ideas could be seen as forms of non-rational, non-functional self-preservation. Recognizing this could help societies to become more open to change and progress.
