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