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