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