There is much debate about human rights these days; fundamental rights and freedoms that individuals in the UK have access to, http://www.equalityhumanrights.com/your-rights/human-rights/what-are-human-rights/human-rights-act
However, before we rush off to court to ‘fight for our rights’, let’s bear in mind, a simpler, important list which we can apply to our everyday lives and consider in our relationships with others.
- I have the right to grieve over what I didn’t get that I needed, or what I got that I didn’t need or want.
- I have the right to say no to anything.
- I have the right to dignity and respect.
- I have the right to have my needs and wants respected by others.
- I have the right to terminate conversations with people, if I feel put down or humiliated.
- I have the right not to be responsible for others’ behaviour, feelings, or problems.
- I have the right to make mistakes, to not be perfect and to forgive myself.
- I have the right to grieve over actual or threatened losses.
- I have the right to be angry with someone I love.
- I have the right to feel scared and to say, “I’m afraid”.
- I have the right to let go of guilt and shame.
- I have the right to make decisions based on any reason I choose and change my mind at any time.
- I have the right to my own personal space and time needs.
- I have the right to be relaxed, playful and happy.
- I have the right to change and grow.
- I have the right to be in a non-abusive environment.
- I have the right to be healthier than those around me, taking care of myself…and most importantly; I have the right to add to these rights at any time I choose.