Values clarification — identifying what matters most to you at the deepest level — is a cornerstone of ACT therapy for toxic positivity and provides direction when toxic positivity removes other navigational tools.
Why Values Matter for Toxic Positivity
Toxic Positivity often disconnects us from our values through avoidance, withdrawal, and reduced capacity. Reconnecting with values provides:
- Direction when toxic positivity has eliminated other motivation
- Meaning that persists even through difficult toxic positivity periods
- A basis for action independent of how toxic positivity makes you feel
Clarifying Your Values with Toxic Positivity
Ask yourself: 'If my toxic positivity were less present, what would I be doing more of? What kind of person would I be?'
Values are not goals (achievable and done) but ongoing directions: being a present parent, creating beauty, contributing to others.
Values-Based Action in Toxic Positivity
ACT therapy teaches: act according to values even when toxic positivity is present. Small values-aligned actions, despite toxic positivity, are more sustainable than waiting for toxic positivity to lift first.