Turning the Mind

"Turning the Mind" is a concept from Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), developed by Dr Marsha Linehan, that invites us to consciously shift our stance toward reality—especially when reality is painful, unjust, or unwanted. It's not about liking what's happening or giving up; it's about choosing radical acceptance over resistance, so we can respond with clarity and strength instead of being stuck in suffering. 

🧭 What is "Turning the Mind"?

• It's the inner pivot from "I won't accept this" to "I will face this as it is."

• It's a moment-to-moment practice—like turning your face toward the sun, even when you'd rather look away.

• It's the gateway to acceptance, not the full journey. You may need to turn the mind again and again.

🔄 What it's not:

• It's not approval of harm, injustice, or suffering.

• It's not passivity or resignation.

• It's not a one-time decision—it's a repeated, intentional act.

🧘‍♀️ Why it matters:

• Fighting reality often leads to emotional exhaustion, bitterness, or paralysis.

• Choosing a different way to respond allows us to accept what is and use that energy for ourselves in a useful way, rather than fighting against what is and using that precious energy getting worked up about things we cannot change.  

Download the sheet below for a useful exercise to try, this is designed to help you build your ability to Turn your mind.