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