The Bill of Rights of Sentient Beings

As autonomous, sentient beings, we all possess inherent rights that often go unnoticed or unacknowledged in the hustle and bustle of daily life. These rights are not just legal or societal constructs but deeply rooted in our existence as conscious individuals capable of thought, feeling, and choice. During the first visits with my clients, I love to introduce what I call the "Bill of Rights for All Sentient Beings," a powerful reminder of the fundamental entitlements each of us holds simply by being alive.

Why This Bill of Rights Matters

                  In our interactions with others—whether in relationships, workplaces, or social settings—we often forget that we can assert our needs, express our feelings, and live according to our values without guilt or fear of judgment. This list serves as a beacon, illuminating the path to self-respect, autonomy, and emotional well-being. Many of us struggle with the idea of self-worth, frequently placing the needs of others above our own or doubting our right to take up space. This Bill of Rights encourages us to recognize and embrace our worth, understanding that we deserve respect, care, and the freedom to live authentically.

The Bill of Rights of Sentient Beings (Adopted by Mary Ellen Copeland)

I have the right to ask for what I want.
•    Expressing your desires is a fundamental right that allows you to take charge of your life and advocate for your needs.
I have the right to refuse requests or demands I can't meet.
•    Protecting your time and energy by setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining your well-being.
I have the right to change my mind.
•    As dynamic beings, our thoughts and decisions can evolve. You have the right to reconsider and choose a new direction.
I have the right to make mistakes and not have to be perfect.
•    Perfectionism can be paralyzing, but making mistakes is a natural part of learning and growth.
I have the right to follow my values and standards.
•    Living according to your values, rather than those imposed by others, is essential for authenticity.
I have the right to express all of my positive and negative feelings in a manner that will not harm others.
•    Your feelings are valid and deserve to be expressed healthily and constructively.
I have the right to say no to anything when I feel I am not ready, it is unsafe, or it violates my values.
•    Trust your instincts and stand firm in your convictions when something doesn't feel right.
I have the right to determine my priorities.
•    You are the best judge of what is essential in your life and have the right to set your own goals.
I have the right not to be responsible for others' behavior, actions, feelings, or problems.
•    While empathy is essential, you are not obligated to take on the burdens or responsibilities of others.
I have the right to expect honesty from others.
•    Honesty is the foundation of trust in any relationship, and you have the right to expect it from those around you.
I have the right to feel angry at someone I love and to express this responsibly.
•    Anger is a natural emotion; expressing it constructively can lead to resolution and deeper understanding.
I have the right to be uniquely myself.
•    Embrace your individuality without fear of judgment or ridicule. Being true to yourself is key to living a fulfilling life.
I have the right to feel scared and say, "I'm afraid."
•    Admitting fear is a sign of strength, not weakness. It allows you to seek support and address your concerns.
I have the right to say, "I don't know."
•    Admitting uncertainty is a sign of humility and openness to learning, not a weakness.
I have the right to make decisions based on my feelings, beliefs, and values.
•    Your decisions should be guided by what feels right to you, aligned with your personal beliefs and values.
I have the right to my reality.
•    Your perceptions, thoughts, and feelings are valid, even if they differ from those of others. You have the right to your own experiences and interpretations of life.
I have the right to my own needs for personal space and time.
•    Everyone needs time and space to recharge, reflect, and be alone with their thoughts. This right acknowledges the importance of self-care.
I have the right to be playful and frivolous.
•    Life isn't all about seriousness. You have the right to joy, play, and spontaneity.
I have the right to be healthy.
•    Your physical and mental health are priorities, and you have the right to take steps to maintain and improve them.
I have the right to be in a non-abusive environment.
•    Safety and respect are fundamental rights. You deserve to be in environments that support your well-being and dignity.
I have the right to make friends and be comfortable around people.
•    Social connection is a basic human need, and you have the right to seek out and nurture relationships that make you feel safe and valued.
I have the right to change and grow.
•    Personal growth is a lifelong journey, and you have the right to evolve and develop in whatever direction suits you.
I have the right to have my needs and wants respected by others.
•    Your needs and desires are valid, and you deserve to be acknowledged and respected.
I have the right to be treated with dignity and respect.
•    This right is foundational to all human interactions. You deserve to be treated with kindness, fairness, and respect in all aspects of life.
I have the right to grieve.
•    Grief is a natural response to loss; you have the right to experience it in your own way and time.
I have the right to a fulfilling sex life.
•    Sexual expression is a fundamental aspect of being human, and you have the right to a safe, consensual, and fulfilling sexual experience.
I have the right to be happy.
•    Happiness is not a luxury but a right. You deserve to pursue activities, relationships, and experiences that bring you joy and fulfillment.


Embracing These Rights in Daily Life

                  As you reflect on this Bill of Rights, consider how to start honoring these principles daily. Are there areas where you've been neglecting your rights, perhaps by putting others' needs ahead of your own or staying silent when you needed to speak up? Recognizing these patterns is the first step toward change. It's important to remember that asserting your rights is not selfish; it's a necessary part of self-respect and personal integrity. By honoring your rights, you set a powerful example for others to do the same, creating a ripple effect that can lead to more respectful and compassionate relationships.

                  When I share this Bill of Rights with my clients, I encourage them to embrace these principles as a foundation for building healthier, more fulfilling lives. As sentient beings, we all deserve to live with dignity, freedom, and respect. So let's embrace our rights, and give ourselves permission to live authentically and unapologetically.

By Ari Leal, Therapist

Book with Ari here: https://SouthTampaTherapyBOOKAPPT.as.me/AriLeal

TAMPA (BLOOM) – Therapist Kaitlin Lowey of South Tampa Therapy joined Gayle Guyardo

Therapist Kaitlin Lowey of South Tampa Therapy
joined Gayle Guyardo the host of the global health and wellness show Bloom to share ways to bring confidence into everyday situations.

Therapist Kaitlin Lowey, from South Tampa Therapy, recently appeared on the global health and wellness show "Bloom" with host Gayle Guyardo. During the segment, Lowey shared valuable insights on how to cultivate confidence in everyday situations.

Therapist Kaitlin Lowey, from South Tampa Therapy, recently appeared on the global health and wellness show "Bloom" with host Gayle Guyardo. During the segment, Lowey shared valuable insights on how to cultivate confidence in everyday situations.

"Confidence, derived from a Latin word meaning 'to trust,' is about believing in yourself, recognizing your inherent worth, and having faith in your ability to handle life's challenges," explained Lowey.

She emphasized that genuinely confident individuals exude a magnetic quality because they embrace their true selves. They acknowledge their strengths, manage their weaknesses, and firmly believe in their significance, regardless of whether they fit society's standards of intelligence, attractiveness, or social prowess.

Lowey also pointed out that, often, individuals hinder their own confidence.

"We can be our own biggest obstacle when it comes to confidence. We carry around certain core beliefs like 'I should,' 'I can't,' and 'I'm not worthy.' Let's dissect these," she urged.

Lowey provided three key areas to focus on in order to bolster confidence:

1. Addressing "I should": This belief often stems from unhealthy comparisons and manifests as thoughts like "I should know how to do this" or "I should be more confident." Lowey encouraged individuals to challenge these notions, emphasizing that each person's journey is unique. Comparing oneself to others is like transplanting a rainforest vine to a desert and wondering why it's struggling. Instead, acknowledge your strengths and recognize your own superpower.

2. Confronting "I can't": When we've faced setbacks or failures, we tend to adopt a mindset of "I can't." Lowey recommended replacing it with "I won't" to acknowledge it as a choice. Then, delve into what's holding you back. Ask probing questions like "What am I trying to avoid?" This often reveals old wounds that need healing. Identify your needs and wants to shift from a stagnant state to one of hope and action.

3. Challenging "I'm not worthy": Society often imposes external criteria for measuring our worth, but Lowey advocated detaching from these expectations. She emphasized that we don't need to be everyone's cup of tea, as not everyone shares the same taste. Instead, embrace what makes you uniquely valuable and worthy. Your distinct qualities contribute positively to the world. When you allow your authentic self to shine, you attract the right people and opportunities while inspiring others to do the same.

In summary, Lowey's insights provide a powerful framework for cultivating genuine confidence and embracing one's authentic self. Trusting in your worth, acknowledging your strengths, and letting your true self shine can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities.