Psychological flexibility refers to our ability to adapt and respond to the various thoughts, emotions, and experiences that arise in our lives. It involves being open, aware, and engaged in the present moment, while also being able to take purposeful action in alignment with one's values, even in the face of difficult or challenging situations. [[Vulnerability]] is linked. Psychological flexibility is a core principle of [[Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)]], a modern form of psychotherapy. It emphasizes the development of skills and strategies to foster psychological flexibility as a means of enhancing overall well-being and resilience. The main components of psychological flexibility - the following 6 pillars of ACT: 1. **Acceptance**: This involves acknowledging and making room for all of our internal experiences, including difficult thoughts, emotions, and sensations, rather than trying to [[Experiential Avoidance|Avoid]] or suppress them. [[Acceptance]] allows individuals to have a more balanced and compassionate relationship with their inner selves and experiences. 2. **Cognitive Defusion**: We all experience [[Cognitive Fusion]] however [[Cognitive De-fusion]] involves stepping back from one's thoughts and observing them as passing events in the mind, rather than getting entangled or [[Cognitive Fusion|fused]] with them. It helps individuals develop a greater sense of perspective and freedom from the grip of unhelpful or negative thoughts. 3. **Present Moment Awareness**: This refers to being fully engaged and attentive to the [[present moment]], rather than being caught up in worries about the past or future. Being present allows individuals to fully experience and respond effectively to what is happening in their lives. 4. **Self-as-Context**: [[Self-as-context]] involves developing a sense of self that is not overly identified with thoughts, emotions, or external circumstances. It involves recognizing that one's experiences and thoughts are separate from one's core self or values, and that they do not define one's worth or identity. 5. **Values Clarification**: Understanding our [[Values]] involve identifying and connecting with one's deepest values and using them as a guide for making [[choice point|choices]] and taking action. When individuals align their actions with their values, they can experience a greater sense of meaning and fulfilment in life. 6. **Committed Action**: [[Committed action]] refers to taking purposeful steps towards one's values, even in the presence of discomfort or obstacles. It involves setting goals and engaging in behaviours that are consistent with one's values, fostering personal growth and well-being. By cultivating psychological flexibility, individuals can develop greater psychological resilience, emotional well-being, and the ability to effectively navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life. This is a factor in leading to living a [[whole-hearted living|whole-hearted]] life