An affirmation is a positive statement that when repeated, produces a change in your thought patterns and beliefs. It is an effective technique to put the power to change in your hands. Affirmations are used for a successful recovery from emotional abuse.

Put the following affirmations on 3x5 cards and attach them to your bathroom mirror, refrigerator, dashboard or desk. You may also consider recording them on a cassette tape with quiet music in the background. When the following are repeated over and over, they will become a part of your belief system.

• I have a fundamental right to a nurturing environment. I seek to live a peaceful life, free from emotional abuse.

• I am a valuable human being. I have the right to be treated with respect. If I allow myself to be mistreated, I am teaching that it is okay for others to abuse me.

• I will not assume responsibility or accept blame for any abusive behavior. I am not causing the unhappiness in my abuser.

• I am choosing to believe in myself whether or not anyone else does. Approval from others is not essential to my well-being.

• It is my responsibility to guard my own safety. I can't force someone to change, but I can create more distance when someone abuses or violates my personal rights.

• I am learning to take care of myself. I do not have to feel guilty for allowing others to take care of themselves.

• I am developing my own character and identity rather than being submerged into what other people think I should be.

• I am not a failure or less of a person because I make mistakes. I expect success and failure as part of who I am. I know that I am not perfect.

• I can be powerful, creative, and assertive when necessary. I have enough confidence to believe that I can handle all kinds of circumstances.

• I will confront my abuser when it is appropriate and safe. It is the only way to stop the abuse and restore healing to our relationship.

• I am confident and optimistic about the future. I believe that my higher power is transforming my brokenness and gently carrying me from the darkness to light.