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