PERSONAL BILL OF RIGHTS

I have the right to ask for what I want.

I have the right to say no to requests or demands I can’t meet.

I have the right to change my mind.

I have the right to make mistakes and not have to be perfect.

I have the right to follow my own values and standards.

I have the right to express all of my feelings, both negative and positive in a manner that will not harm others.

I have the right to say no to anything when I feel I’m not ready, it is unsafe, or it violates my values.

I have the right to determine my own priorities.

I have the right not to be responsible for others’ behaviors, actions, feelings or problems.

I have the right to expect honesty from others.

I have the right to be angry with someone and express this in a responsible manner.

I have the right to be uniquely myself.

I have the right to feel scared and say, “I’m afraid.”

I have the right to say, “I don’t know.”

I have the right to make decisions based on my feelings, beliefs and values.

I have the right to my own reality.

I have the right to my own needs for personal space and time.

I have the right to be playful and frivolous.

I have the right to be healthy.

I have the right to be in a non-abusive environment.

I have the right to make friends and be comfortable around people.

I have the right to change and grow.

I have the right to have my needs and wants respected by others.

I have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.

I have the right to grieve.

I have the right to a fulfilling sex life.

I have the right to be happy.

(Adapted by Mary Ellen Copeland from the Anxiety and Phobia Workbook, Edmund J. Bourne, Ph.D., 1990, New Harbinger Publications, Oakland, CA.)