1. I have the right to my own thoughts, feelings, and values. You don’t have to be like everyone else. And you don’t have to always agree with everyone else. You are your own person and entitled (just like everyone else) to your own sense of self. Don’t let differences in opinions make you feel like you’re wrong. Your true friends and family will still love you whether or not they agree with anything you do or say!
2. The only person I have control over is myself. When you take control of other people, you’re taking away their right to their own thoughts, feelings, and behaviors – that’s not fair. Shift your focus back on yourself and get to know yourself better. It’s time to discover what YOU want and need in life!
3. I don’t have to own other people’s issues. Just as it’s no one else’s responsibility to fix your problems, it’s not your responsibility to solve anyone else’s. Let yourself off the hook and work on being your best self instead!
4. Saying NO does not make me selfish or unkind. There is nothing wrong or mean about declining, refusing, or disagreeing. No is a way you communicate your preference – just like answering, “Yes.” That’s it. It’s understandable if the person you are answering to is disappointed, but it’s their responsibility to get over it. Those who flatly refuse to accept your decision needs to step back and work on their own boundaries.
5. I deserve to be just as kind to myself as I am to others. You are worthy of as much love, kindness, and compassion as the most celebrated people on our planet. Do not allow anyone to convince you that you deserve less. Those suggestions usually come from people with hurtful intentions.
6. I don’t have to sacrifice my well-being to care for others. You have the right and responsibility to care for and protect yourself in order to continue performing at your highest capacity. This not only benefits you, but those who depend on you. Because when you’re at your best, you can better care for those around you.
7. My self-worth isn’t based on external approval. Self-worth is the value you place on yourself. it’s completely independent of what anyone else thinks about you or what you can do for anyone else. So take a deep breath and appreciate the heck out of who you are!
8. Having my own preferences and choosing what feels right for me is not selfish. Codependents tend to believe doing what’s right for them is selfish. This is why setting and enforcing boundaries is necessary. Healthy boundaries give you a safe place to comfortably step into your authentic self!
9. I can be loved simply for who I am. You don’t have to fit into everyone’s mold in order to be loved. That’s not real love – it’s being loved for who you appear to be. There’s nothing wrong being an acquired taste. Relax and be yourself. This will draw in people who genuinely appreciate and love you.
