The phrase "bending to one's will" implies subservience or acquiescence to someone else's desires or demands. Antonyms for this phrase could include terms like resistance, defiance, independence, and self-determination. These words suggest a sense of personal agency and the ability to stand up for oneself or one's beliefs, rather than passively submitting to the will of others. By acknowledging the importance of individual autonomy and assertiveness, we can resist the negative connotations that often accompany the idea of blindly following someone else's lead, and instead foster a spirit of empowerment and proactive decision-making.