Irrational Beliefs
by Albert Ellis

There is a right, precise and perfect solution to human problems and it is awful if this perfect solution is not found.

Other people’s disturbances are horrible and one must feel very upset about them.

One’s past history is an all-important determiner of one’s present behavior. Because something once strongly affected one’s life it should always have that effect.

You are quite dependent on others. You need them and cannot mainly run your own life.

One cannot and must not face life’s responsibilities and difficulties. It is easier to avoid them.

If something is dangerous or fearsome one should be constantly and excessively concerned and should keep dwelling on the possibility of its occurring.

Emotional disturbance is mainly externally caused. People have little or no ability to increase or decrease their dysfunctional feelings and behaviors.

It is awful and terrible when things are not the way one would very much like them to be.

People absolutely must act considerately and fairly. They are villains if they do not.

One absolutely must be competent, adequate, and achieving in all important respects or else one is an inadequate worthless person.

It is a dire necessity for adult humans to be loved or approved of by every significant other person in their community.

If it is a good idea, go ahead and do it. It is much easier to get forgiveness than it is to get permission.