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