Here are things to tell yourself if you grew up emotionally neglected.

1. It’s OK for me to feel happiness, and it is ok for me to feel sad. Our emotions are there to tell us about our experience in the world, and it is important to feel them.

2. I am not overly sensitive. I have feelings, and my feelings allow me to move through the world in my authentic beingness.

3. My needs and preferences are important. Expressing my feelings allows me to connect more deeply with those I love- they get to know me authentically.

4. Talking about my problems will not burden other people. In fact, sharing my problems and challenges is a way that I can connect better with those I love. All people have problems and sharing the challenges I am facing with the people I love allows me to feel connected and can further deepen my relationships.

5. It is Ok to cry. Crying releases emotions and allows me to pass through my emotions in a healthy way.

6. The people who love me will not judge me for showing my feelings. Rather, it lets them know how I am feeling and can deepen my connection with them.

7. It is OK to feel angry when I feel there is an injustice in the world. Feeling angry about something lets me know that something isn’t right with something in my environment.

8. We are not meant to rely solely on ourselves. We evolved in community, helping one another. Relying on others when I need help is a good way to know I am not alone and helps me stay connected with the people I love, especially when I am needing support.

9. What I have to say is important. I am an amazing person; I add value to the world, and I contribute to making the world a better place when I express myself.

10. I am not alone in the world. I have people in my life for whom I matter, who love me and who want me to be happy and connected with them.