One of the most counterintuitive truths about appetite: the struggle against it often makes it worse. Acceptance — clearly misunderstood — is one of the most powerful tools available.
What Acceptance of Appetite Actually Means
Acceptance does NOT mean:
- Liking or approving of appetite
- Giving up on getting better
- Thinking appetite is okay
Acceptance DOES mean:
- Acknowledging appetite without adding unnecessary struggle against the fact of its existence
- Allowing appetite to be present without fighting it into bigger problems
- Making room for appetite while still living your values
The ACT Approach to Appetite
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) uses acceptance as a core tool: instead of fighting appetite, you learn to make room for it while committing to valued action regardless.
The Paradox of Accepting Appetite
Many people find that when they stop fighting appetite and simply allow it, it loses intensity. The suffering of appetite is partly the struggle against it.