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