Situations and people change. Sometimes it's circumstance, and sometimes it's a choice. Whatever the case, acceptance is a tool that will help in almost any situation. Here are 10 ways to make it a part of your world.

A: Allow for differences. Individual opinions and tastes can make conversations more entertaining, broaden your horizons, and make you think. It's our differences that make us interesting.

C: Compromise is key. If you give in on the little things, the big ones usually go your way. Being stubborn will make your life more difficult. Give a little, and you'll get a lot.

C: Control is contagious. If your partner feels that you are trying to control things, he or she will try to do the same. Figure out what's best for everyone, and go with the flow.

E: Enjoy the process. Good relationships are hard work. When you get the chance for a little R&R, take it. It also helps to have a good sense of humor.

P: Patience is platinum. Things and people get off track, but usually, with a little time, we all seem to find our way back. If you are patient, you can have everything you desire.

T: Temper your temper. If someone you care for accidentally steps on your toes, take it in stride by remembering all the times you've made a mistake.

A: Agree to disagree. Don't waste precious time stewing over misunderstandings. It's not about giving in; it's really about moving forward. Making up is more fun than being angry.

N: Negotiate with kindness. Emotional blackmail, like withholding affection or threatening to end the relationship, is never appropriate. Learn to talk it out and lift each other up.

C: Compassion comes naturally. If you've stopped caring, or if you're just being selfish, grab yourself by the heart and pull out of it. By remembering why you fell in love with your partner, you can find that spark of compassion.

E: Embrace the irony. Life gets weird, and it's healthier to learn to deal with change rather than denying it exists or making it a mini-drama. When you look at your life as a whole, it usually balances out.

We all need to learn to accept each other and life circumstances, so we can move forward in a way that will enhance our lives and relationships.

Make an honest assessment of where you are in life, and accept it. Truth is, that's the only way to move to the next level.

— Dr. Barton Goldsmith, marriage and family therapist, can be reached at 818-879-9996 or via e-mail at Barton@BartonGoldsmith.com. He has lived and practiced in Westlake Village for more than a decade. Hear him live on KCLU Radio, 88.3 FM, from 2 to 3 p.m. Mondays.