The following is an example of a restructuring statement for a dysfunctional thought:
“I can’t stand it when someone gets angry with me.”
- Restructuring Statement:
It can be uncomfortable, but I don’t need their approval. I can handle and tolerate disapproval.
Now take a few minutes to create your own restructuring statement for the following dysfunctional thoughts:
(See Printout)
- “If I request something it shows that I’m weak.”
- “If they say ‘no’ I’ll be devastated.”
- “I don’t deserve to get what I ask for.”
- “I have to be sure a person is going to say ‘yes’ before I ask for something.”
- “I must be incompetent if I can’t do something myself.”
- “Asking for something is really a selfish and pushy thing to do.”