162: How to Accept the Hardships of Life (Advent Series 1) | Steven Hryniewicz

Well, here we are. Advent. And today’s episode is the beginning of a four-part series on Advent, that will teach how to make this season into one of healing and hope. And we begin our reflections by unpacking the term acceptance. As we enter into Advent, I want to ask: are you struggling with accepting the year that has been? Have things not worked out the way you wanted, and are a little unsure how to surrender it to God?

If so, I’m happy you found this episode. Joining me on the podcast, to help unpack acceptance is Steven Hryniewicz, a skilled practitioner in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, or ACT.

Steven and I talk about how ACT encourages us to drop the struggle with difficult thoughts and emotions, giving us the freedom to focus on what truly matters. We examine how ACT can help us embrace psychological flexibility and align our actions with our values. We also dive into how Advent, as a season of both light and darkness, beginnings and ends, mirrors the therapeutic journey of finding meaning and grace in all parts of life—even the painful ones. Whether it’s managing anxiety, processing grief, or finding happiness, this episode offers practical insights and a fresh perspective for the season.

If you’re ready to embrace this Advent with a renewed sense of acceptance, hope, and purpose, then this conversation is for you. Let’s go!

If you have any questions about this show or topic, please leave them in the comments.

Chapters:

00:00:00 Introduction to ACT and Advent

00:04:10 What Is ACT?

00:09:50 Redefining Acceptance

00:14:15 Psychological Flexibility in Life and Faith

00:20:45 Solution to Anxiety 00:24:36 Anxiety and the Attachment Response

00:32:38 Uncovering Underlying Emotions

00:39:35 Exploring Pain and Values

00:44:10 Accepting Loneliness

00:50:29 Dropping Anchor Meditation

01:01:46 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Steven's practice: https://paxtherapysolutions.com

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