In this animated video, “The Choice Point: A Map for a Meaningful Life,” Dr Russ Harris (author of The Happiness Trap) introduces an elegant framework from Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). The Choice Point helps you identify crucial moments in life when you can choose to move toward your values, or get pulled away by old patterns.

What you’ll learn:

• How everyday moments present a Choice Point between “towards moves” (actions aligned with your values) and “away moves” (actions driven by avoidance or fear).

• What helpers are: values, strengths, and unhooking skills that help you take steps toward the life you want.

• Why noticing this choice, and practicing the response, brings clarity, purpose, and psychological flexibility.

Why this matters:

This video is a powerful tool for anyone feeling stuck, reactive, or disconnected from what matters most. It gives you a gentle roadmap for choosing actions that reflect your deepest values, especially when thoughts or emotions try to pull you off course.

Suggested use:

• Watch slowly and pause at the choice point moment, then reflect on where you see this in your own life.

• No special equipment needed, just space to think and catch your breath.

• Best watched when you’re unsure, overwhelmed, or navigating an emotional dilemma.

Follow-Up & Resources

If this resonated with you, you might like to explore:

• The Struggle Switch video (another ACT tool in our resource library)

• Join our therapy sessions, where we explore these tools grounded in movement, mindfulness, and nature

Reflect & Apply

Consider pairing the video with a simple worksheet:

• Identify a recent Choice Point in your life. What “away moves” were tempting?

• List your “helpers” (values, unhooking skills, or supports that could guide you toward a different response).

• Describe one small “towards move” you can make this week that reflects your values.