Webster’s dictionary defines acceptance as willingness to tolerate a difficult or unpleasant situation. Acceptance involves acknowledging the unvarnished facts of our situation – the good and the not so good, without judging.
Acceptance does not mean we lay down and bury our heads in the uncomfortable. Acceptance also does not mean we give up and quit.
How to practice Acceptance
Learning to accept the events and situations in our life, especially those that we have zero control of can be a liberating practice. By doing this, we actually create an open space for something new, and possibly even better.
Here are my top five ways to lean into acceptance:
- Gratitude. I say it over and over. Gratitude is the #1 way to redirect the thoughts of woes into the actual gifts our life does indeed offer. Gratitude won’t change your negative experience, but it will help you with seeking out happiness in your life despite the uncomfortable challenges.
- Finding Joy. Discovering things each day that bring you joy will remind you that even though there are challenges in your life, there are also opportunities for joyful moments. Joy comes in all forms and it is imperative to keep finding new things that brighten your day.
- Radical Selfcare. As we go through hard times our self care becomes so important. Sometimes our self care changes as we navigate new ways of being, but there are still many ways we can involve self care in our life. A special tea, a new book, time outside, or anything else that makes you feel special.
- Connection. When we surround ourselves with like-minded people we feel seen and valued. The perspective of others and their challenges also remind us that we are not alone, and that everyone has some form of challenge.
- Hobbies. Much like gratitude, finding things that occupy our mind can empower us to not feel defeated by the present challenges. Learning a new skill, dedicating time to something, nurturing other things like a garden or plants, are all ways to put our mind elsewhere.
After the last seven months of my life, I have had to dig extra deep into acceptance. I have a little to say about this. Take a listen.
