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