1. I have numerous choices in my life beyond mere survival.
2. I have a right to follow my own values and standards.
3. I have a right to say no to anything when I feel I am not ready, it is unsafe, or violates my value system.
4. I have a right to dignity and respect.
5. I have the right to terminate conversations with people who make me feel put down and humiliated.
6. I have the right not to be responsible for others’ behavior, actions, feelings, or problems.
7. I have the right to my own personal space and time needs.
8. I have a right to make friends and be comfortable around people.
9. I have a right to be in a non-abusive environment.
10.  

After reading the list of your “basic rights,” identify a situation in your life that could be improved by using more assertive communication. Describe this situation, then applying the DESC Format on page 107 of your text (Verbal Assertiveness), write out what you could do or say, and to whom, in order to be more assertive in this specific situation. Make sure this statement is written in the “first person” (When you… I feel…, I would prefer…, If you do, I will…, If you don’t, I will…)