You Have the Right to a Fulfilling and Vital Life: The Personal Bill of Rights

I believe we all have rights as human beings and often reflect on and share this list with my clients . . .

Personal Bill of Rights

1. I have the right to ask for what I want.
2. I have a right to say no to requests or demands that I cannot meet.
3. I have a right to express all of my feelings – positive and negative.
4. I have a right to feel all of my feelings.
5. I have a right to change my mind.
6. I have a right to make mistakes and do not have to be perfect.
7. I have a right to follow my own values and beliefs.
8. I have the right to say no to anything if I feel that I am not ready, if it is unsafe, or if it conflicts with my values.
9. I have the right to determine my own priorities.
10. I have the right not to be responsible for the actions, feelings, or behavior of others.
11. I have the right to expect honesty from others.
12. I have the right to be angry at someone I love.
13. I have the right to be myself.  To be unique.
14. I have the right to express fear.
15. I have the right to say, “I don’t know.”
16. I have the right not to give excuses or reasons for my behavior.
17. I have the right to make decisions based on my feelings.
18. I have the right to my own personal space and time.
19. I have the right to be playful.
20. I have the right to be healthy.
21. I have the right to feel safe, and be in a non-abusive environment.
22. I have the right to make friends and be comfortable around people.
23. I have the right to change and grow.
24. I have the right to have my wants and needs respected by others.
25. I have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
26. I have the right to live a fulfilling and vital life.

(Adapted from Therapist’s Guide to Clinical Intervention: The 1-2-3’s of Treatment Planning by Sharon L. Johnson)

I encourage you to write your own Personal Bill of Rights or reflect on this list.  Is there anything you would add or change?  I would love to hear your thoughts!

Are you currently looking for a therapist?  To schedule an appointment, contact me today at catherine@embracestrengthcounseling or visit my website for more information about my services.

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