The Problem with #Perfection

Are you a #perfectionist? 

Let’s find out if perfectionism is an issue for you. Here are a few statements for you to consider (retrieved September 19, 2012 from the Centre for Clinical Interventions):

	True	Somewhat True	Somewhat False	False
Nothing good comes from making mistakes
I must do things right the first time
I must do everything well, not just the things I know I’m good at
If I can’t do something perfectly then there is no point even trying
I rarely give myself credit when I do well because there’s always something more I could do
Sometimes I am so concerned about getting one task done perfectly that I don’t have time to complete the rest of my work.

If you have answered most of the above questions with True or Somewhat True, then perfectionism might be something you want to work on.

The problem with striving for perfection is we end up never feeling good enough. As a result, we miss out on enjoying life because our focus is on getting things done or trying to look like we’ve got it together. Dr. Scott Barfoot of Dallas Theological Seminary points out, “Perfectionism is the mental habit of formulating ideal standards that we demand ourselves to meet in order to prove to ourselves, to others, and to God our worth.” Unfortunately, it all boils down to our own self-worth. Perfectionist thinking says, “If I’m perfect then I am worth loving.” Peel back the layers, we find shame. “If you saw me for who I really am then you wouldn’t love me.” So, we work harder and try to perfect ourselves. Dr. Barfoot explains, “Perfectionism is at the root of a works-based faith.”  We were created for love and belonging. But the more we perfect the more we miss out on connecting and loving one another.

Watch this 5 minute video of Brené Brown talking about perfection.

Is this hitting home for you?  The Centre for Clinical Interventions has a great 9 module self-help series called Perfectionism in Perspective.  If you struggle with perfectionism, I encourage you to work through the series. 

Coping with Depression and Anxiety Group begins Monday

Coping with Depression and Anxiety

Starts July 9, 2012

This is an open, ongoing group, where anyone (men & women) needing support, encouragement and improved coping skills is invited to attend. The group focuses on biblically based cognitive, behavioral, and problem-solving strategies to help cope with depression and anxiety. By attending the group, you will learn:

• How to change the cycle of depression & anxiety by activating and engaging in activities that can improve your mood.
• How to recognize and modify negative thinking patterns that may contribute to your depression and/or anxiety.
• Techniques to prevent further depressive episodes.
• You are not alone.

The group is $25 per session and meets every Monday from 7:15 PM to 8:15 PM at

680 Mayport Road, Atlantic Beach, FL 32233

Registration Required

For more information

or to register, please call:

904-339-5937

OR

Email: admin@afutureforyou.org

Now Accepting New Clients at Living Well Counseling, Coaching and Consulting

We are so excited to make this announcement!  Hope and a Future Ministries, Inc. is opening Living Well Counseling, Coaching and Consulting in Atlantic Beach, FL! Our address is 680 Mayport Rd. Atlantic Beach, FL. The phone number is 904-339-5937.

Boy, were our original plans blown out of the water.  Back in January, we did not think we would be able to open our counseling center. We strategically planned to open a thrift store boutique to support the counseling ministry. Well, Atlantic Beach Assembly of God, graciously offered the use of their building during the week.  The best part is we have such low overhead that we will be able to keep our rates low.  Praise God!  


If you know someone who is in need of counseling or coaching in Duval County, FL please tell them about Living Well Counseling, Coaching and Consulting.  Visit our website at www.afutureforyou.org for more information or to make an appointment.


One last request, please keep our ministry in prayer.