Choice Point is a specific application of ACT [Acceptance and Commitment Therapy] that is used to help people make important life decisions. Often we get stuck in unhelpful patterns of thinking and behavior, which can lead to emotional distress. To overcome this, ACT focuses on helping you accept your thoughts and feelings without judgment, and commit to taking action towards values-based goals.
Choice Point ACT can be applied to a variety of areas of life, including health and fitness. For example, an individual who is struggling to make a decision about their health and fitness goals can use Choice Point ACT to help them make a decision that aligns with their values.
Step 1: Values & Goals
The first step in this process would be to identify your values related to health and fitness. This might involve asking questions such as “What is important to you when it comes to your health?” “What do you want to achieve with your fitness?” “What do you want to do more of, less of, or differently?” What sort of person do you want to be?”
You may identify values such as feeling healthy, having energy, or being able to participate in activities they enjoy.
Step 2: Toward & Away moves
Once you have identified your values, the next step is to help them explore different options that align with those values. For example, you may be considering starting a new exercise program, changing your diet, or seeking professional help.
One important aspect of this method is the concept of “toward and away moves.”
A “toward move” is an action that is taken in alignment with an individual’s values. It is a step towards achieving a goal or fulfilling a value. For example, if an individual values being healthy, a toward move for them might be to start a new exercise program or to make changes to their diet.
On the other hand, an “away move” is an action that is taken in opposition to an individual’s values. It is a step away from achieving a goal or fulfilling a value. For example, if an individual values being healthy, an away move for them might be to continue engaging in unhealthy habits such as smoking or overeating.
Once you have identified toward and away moves it helps you to make a wise decision that focuses on taking toward moves, which are actions that align with their values. This process helps you to make decisions that are more likely to lead to a fulfilling and meaningful life.
It’s important to note that away moves are not always bad, and that sometimes in order to move forward, one needs to take a step back and reassess their values, options and goals. Also, it’s important to remember that the point is not to avoid away moves but to understand the impact of these moves and make conscious choices about them.
In summary, Choice Point ACT focuses on helping you make decisions that align with your values by identifying both toward and away moves, and emphasizing on taking toward moves that align with the individual’s values, which will help them achieve their goals and lead a fulfilling life.
