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