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