DYSFUNCTIONAL
MINDSETS – Homework
The following assignment has the
potential to
provide insight and to literally
change your life.
Scripture calls us to agree with what
God says
about us. It exhorts us to “Put on
the mind of Christ” and to
“Take off the old man. Put on the new
man.”
1.
Write a paragraph which summarizes
what you believe is a Negative Mindset in
your life.
Example: All my life I have
believed I am stupid and that I could never achieve success in school, on the
job, or in a relationship. The longer I live, the more I realize what an utter
failure and waste I am. God really does make junk. I’m clear proof of it.”
2.
Next, write a paragraph which
summarizes a Defensive Mechanism which flows
out of the faulty mindset. (This paragraph represents a behavior or lack
thereof). For instance,
Example: Because I believe I am
stupid and a failure, I have given up trying. I have been and will be content
with just getting by. I mean, what’s the use anyway? I must shield myself from
getting hurt or taking risks. As much as possible I will refrain from any
activity in which I’m destined for failure.
3.
Next, Rewrite the
Mindset contained in the first paragraph. Whether you believe it or not
at this moment, rewrite the mindset in a healthier, positive manner. For
instance,
Example: All
my life I have been believing a lie. Because I understand this now, I am
determined to change my perceptions of my abilities. I am not stupid, and God
really doesn’t make junk. He has loved me with an everlasting love, and as I
follow Him, He will give me success and give me grace in my daily activities.
4.
Finally, write a paragraph which
summarizes a Coping Mechanism that should
result from the Rewritten Mindset, above.
(This paragraph represents one or more positive behaviors or actions). For
instance,
Because it is not enough to believe a
particular way, I will begin to take healthier, positive actions which reflect
my new mindset about my abilities and self- worth. I will risk getting hurt. I
will go the distance. I will purposely do my best, and attempt to succeed in
each and every opportunity God provides me.
**Begin to focus on and apply the Rewritten Mindset and the resulting Coping Mechanism in your life. Read these
paragraphs aloud several times a day. Incorporate them into your life. Use every
opportunity you get to take the necessary actions which agree with your new
mindset.
You may wish to do the previous
homework assignment several times in relation to various faulty mindsets in
your life.
“Commit your works unto the Lord, and your thoughts will
be established.” (Proverbs 16:3)
No comments:
Post a Comment