How Does Acceptance Lead to Personal Change?

I'm including a link to a podcast with Steven Hayes, co-founder of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), by Kelly Brownell the director of the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Obesity: http://bit.ly/BO9HF.. Steven talks about applying ACT to weight loss and healthy lifestyles, particularly how just losing weight is not enough--the person needs to connect to deeper values. Much of what he says again proves to me there is no silver bullet to personal change. However, the application of acceptance, particularly of our emotions, along with mindfulness and values-based action can lead to a more fulfilling life. Most of us become very critical of ourselves when we're trying to change. Acceptance is the complete opposite of this. Steven gives some direction about ways to change that are more gentle and compassionate.
If you listen to the podcast, I'd be interested in your thoughts.