You can see how these many pieces fit together to create a full, meaningful life. However, crafting each piece takes a lot of time and energy.
It's up to you to be aware of your rights, what you need, how to access resources and who to ask for assistance, and think of creative ways to make things work in the best and most meaningful way. To do that, you must make sure you receive regular information on the latest ideas, the best resources and newest sources of funding, and the most current versions of the laws that impact your life.
As you know from experience, the best person to make decisions about you and your future is YOU! That means you have to take an active role in every decision that gets made. You have to wear a lot of different hats.
| Your Role: | You Might Do This By: |
Network and Create
Your best sources of information are other people with developmental disabilities, other parents, family members, teachers, and experts.
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Knowing your rights.
Asking questions and gathering information from those who know what's worked and what hasn't.
Joining advocacy organizations and special interest groups. If you can't find one in your area, start one!
Applying what you've learned to improve your situation.
Being creative.
Not simply accepting what the "system" tells you - after all, you're the expert on your situation.
Sharing your experiences with others.
Voicing your opinions and expectations.
Remember, learning never ends!
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Evaluate and Monitor
Look at your options carefully to find the right solution for your current situation.
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Setting clear goals and expectations.
Analyzing each option and weighing the pros and cons against your goals before deciding on a course of action.
Thinking about the future.
Being flexible and willing to change course if the situation changes or a better alternative becomes available.
Trying new things.
Staying organized and vigilant.
Reevaluating your plans annually to make sure they still fit your situation.
Be assertive if your expectations aren't met - you deserve the best!
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Motivate
Stay positive and focused, especially when you find yourself running into roadblocks.
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Keeping your focus on your goals.
Thinking "can do" instead of "cannot."
Celebrating successes - big and small!
Helping those around you stay positive.
You control your future - dreams do come true if you stay on track.
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Advocate
It's important to speak up and share your story. It's very empowering and makes a difference.
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Adopting "nothing about me without me" as your motto!
Accepting responsibility for your life and your decisions.
Being the face of change in your community.
Speaking up, speaking out.
Joining others who are working to create change.
Sharing your passion!
Becoming an activist.
No one knows what needs to change better than you – use that knowledge to change your world.
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Copyright © 2006. The Minnesota Governor's Council on Developmental Disabilities. All rights reserved.
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