The Happiness Trap: Stop Struggling, Start Living

by Russ Harris

bother you much less, and they “move on” much more rapidly, instead of “hanging around” and disturbing you. (The official ACT term for this principle is “acceptance.” I have changed it because the word “acceptance” has many different meanings and is often misunderstood.) 3. CONNECTION Connecting fully with whatever is happening right here, right now; focusing on and engaging in whatever you’re doing or experiencing. Instead of dwelling on the past or worrying about the future, you are deeply connected with the present moment. (The official ACT phrase is “Contact with the Present Moment.” I have changed it purely for brevity.) 4. THE OBSERVING SELF A powerful aspect of the mind, which has been largely ignored by Western psychology until now. As you get to know this part of yourself, you will further transform your relationship with difficult thoughts and feelings. 5. VALUES Clarifying and connecting with your values is an essential step for making life meaningful. Your values are reflections of what is most important in your heart: what sort of person you want to be, what is significant and meaningful to you, and what you want to stand for in this life. Your values provide