The Art of Letting Go: Stop Overthinking, Stop Negative Spirals, and Find Emotional Freedom (The Path to Calm Book 13)

by Nick Trenton

Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) is a therapeutic approach that emphasizes psychological flexibility. In ACT, attachment is a key concept that is closely tied to the ability to observe one's thoughts, feelings, and beliefs. This allows for a more flexible response to the present moment, rather than rigidly following the mind's rules, old schemas, or shoulds. ACT distinguishes between "self-as-content" and "self-as-context" to clarify the difference in perspective. When an individual is attached to self-as-content, they may believe that the stories their mind tells them about themselves are true and may not see the bigger picture. For example, someone might believe that they are good at math and bad at writing or that they are a good mother. However, this attachment to one's ego can be problematic when things don't go as expected or when change occurs. Being stuck in self-satisfaction may prevent someone from paying attention to important feedback that could help them grow. On the other hand, self-as-context is a way of looking at oneself that allows for more flexibility and options. Rather than being attached to the ego, self-as-context acknowledges that an individual is constantly changing. They may be good at math and bad at writing at one time, and the opposite at another time. They may be a good mother in some situations but not in others. Self-as-context encourages individuals to see themselves with an open mind, from different perspectives, and to understa...