But there are many benefits to behaving in a more grown-up fashion. Recognizing these more substantial payoffs—such as gaining self-respect, the respect of others, and attracting emotionally healthier partners who do not need to dominate and control you—will help you to give up the pay- offs you are now receiving.EXERCISE: THE PAYOFFS TO GROWING UPMake a list of the payoffs you can and will experience when you choose to grow up and take care of yourself.136 THE NICE GIRL SYNDROME Remedy #5: Create a Positive and Powerful StatementYour naive and innocent act may be the result of your refusal to grow up or your desire to remain in denial. Whichever the case, create a positive and powerful statement to counter these negative desires.9Start Standing Up for Your RightsRemember, no one can make you feel inferior without your consent.—ELEANOR ROOSEVELTFalse belief: I don’t have the right to act on my own behalf.Empowering belief: I have the right to act on my own behalf when necessary, including saying no when I don’t want to do something.This chapter is especially beneficial for Victims, DoormatsThere are many reasons women have difficulty standing up for themselves.
