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