Wednesday, December 17, 2008

The Assertive Person's Bill of Rights

This is an excerpt from Manuel J. Smith's book, When I Say No, I Feel Guilty. Even if you don't think you have a problem being assertive, his list is a good reminder. I especially like #2.

1. You have right to put yourself first sometimes

2. You have a right to make mistakes.

3. You have a right to your own feelings, beliefs, and opinions.

4. You have a right to change y our mind or decide on a different course of action.

5. You have a right to speak up if you feel you've been treated unfairly.

6. You have a right to ask for clarification when you do not understand something.

7. You have a right to ask for help or emotional support.

8. You have a right to ignore the advice of others.

9. You have a right to receive formal recognition for your work and achievements.

10. You have a right to say no.

11. You have a right to be left alone when you want to be alone.

12. You have a right not to have to anticipate others' needs (86).