Overview of the Yearning for Competence in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

Information Guidance Sheets (part 7 of 7) - Committed Action

In Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), six core yearnings represent fundamental human desires that drive and guide behavior. These yearnings correspond to the six processes and the six points of the Hexagon Model of psychological flexibility.

These interrelated processes foster psychological flexibility, which is the ability to fully engage with the present moment and adapt behavior in ways that serve valued ends.

One of these core yearnings is Competence

From birth, we are wired to strive for competence, learning through trial and error—much like a baby learning to walk. However, as we mature, our desire for competence can sometimes manifest as perfectionism or a fear of failure.

This narrowed focus can lead us to procrastinate on important tasks aligned with our values or persist with activities that do not serve our true goals.

The innate yearning for competence drives us to excel in what we do. Clients often come to us feeling stuck, unable to take action even when the steps forward are clear, paralyzed by a fear of failure.

Building Patterns of Committed Action

Concept: This involves setting goals according to values and taking effective action towards achieving them, despite potential obstacles and discomfort.

Clinical Application:

The clinician works to develop concrete, value-driven goals and action plans while working at fostering perseverance in clients by: