Some clients have such a sad tale to tell (if you'll let them). They have been so exploited! They are so badly used! They are so abused! And they are so prepared to tell about how others have "done them wrong." I can usually short—circuit this story by asking them how they get even. The client is almost startled by the question, but they can always answer it—usually with a smile. From this beginning I can point out to clients that in getting revenge they are demonstrating that they do have some power over their destiny. They are not merely victims that they believe themselves to be. They can and do affect things. I happen to think that this power can be used in better ways than getting even, and I say so. From this beginning we can start to develop new beliefs which will lead to new behaviors and will lead away from the life of victimization. Everyone has power enough to avoid being victimized. Getting even is evidence of this power. The trick is to put this power to better use.