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