Thought this was an interesting read and likely to spark some great discussions.
[It’s a 2 page article so be sure to read both pages.]
A Universe Without Purpose by Lawrence M. Krauss
via The Good Atheist on Facebook
See also http://thegoodatheist.com/
Don’t watch this video unless you’re ready to do some self-reflection that may even change how you see yourself as you head out into the world today. My husband shared this with me because … well if you read this post then you know exactly why he shared it with me. In fact, every time she described herself he looked at me with that, ‘She sounds exactly like you!’ look. Ok – he actually came right out and said it.
While this video touched me in particular because perfectionism is one of the big issues that always needs addressing in my life, I’m sure her message is applicable on some level to anyone reading this right now. It’s about being wholehearted and authentic and having the courage to be imperfect in order to connect with ourselves and others.
So here’s your 20 minute Sunday sermon substitute 🙂
Dr. Brené Brown is a researcher professor at the University of Houston, Graduate College of Social Work, where she has spent the past ten years studying a concept that she calls Wholeheartedness, posing the questions: How do we engage in our lives from a place of authenticity and worthiness? How do we cultivate the courage, compassion, and connection that we need to embrace our imperfections and to recognize that we are enough — that we are worthy of love, belonging and joy? Brené is the author of I Thought It Was Just Me (but it isn’t): Telling the Truth About Perfectionism, Inadequacy, and Power (2007) and the forthcoming books, The Gifts of Imperfection (2010) and Wholehearted: Spiritual Adventures in Falling Apart, Growing Up, and Finding Joy ( 2011).
My husband did the DISC personality profile at work and then took me through it later. So this wasn’t done by a professional but considering that one of my best friends was blown away by how much it sounded like me – I think it’s pretty accurate. Thought it would be fun to post my results. I’m sure it comes into play with how I approach religious issues. An exChristian friend of mine has me interested in whether there might be similar personality profiles among people who deconvert. Anyway – here are my results:
[These are all words that the test would use to describe me.]
Dominance was mid-range: calculated risk-taker, self-critical, unassuming, self-effacing, realistic
Influence was very low: pessimistic, aloof, withdrawn, self-conscious, reticent
Steadiness was mid-range: outgoing, alert, eager, critical, discontented
Conscientiousness was extremely high: perfectionist, accurate, fact-finder, diplomatic, systematic
Objective Thinker Pattern was the closest match to me but Perfectionist Pattern was a very close second:
Objective Thinker Pattern
Emotions: rejects interpersonal aggression
Goal: correctness
Judges others by: ability to think logically
Influences others by: use of facts, data, and logical arguments
Value to the organization: defines and clarifies; obtains, evaluates, and tests information
Overuses: analysis
Under pressure: becomes worrisome
Fears: irrational acts, ridicule
Would increase effectiveness through: self-disclosure; public discussion of their insights and opinions
Objective Thinkers tend to have highly developed critical thinking abilities. They emphasize the importance of facts when drawing conclusions and planning actions, and they seek correctness and accuracy in everything they do. To manage their work activities effectively, Objective Thinkers often combine intuitive information with the facts they have gathered. When in doubt about a course of action, they avoid public failure by preparing meticulously. For example, Objective Thinkers will master a new skill privately before they use it in a group activity.
Objective Thinkers prefer to work with people who, like themselves, are interested in maintaining a peaceful work environment. Considered shy by some, they may be reticent in expressing their feelings. They are particularly uncomfortable with aggressive people. Despite being mild-mannered, Objective Thinkers have a strong need to control their environment. They tend to exert this control indirectly by requiring others to adhere to rules and standards.
Objective Thinkers are concerned with the “right” answer and may have trouble making decisions in ambiguous situations. With their tendency to worry, they may get bogged down in “analysis paralysis.” When they make a mistake, Objective Thinkers often hesitate to acknowledge it. Instead, they immerse themselves in a search for information that supports their position.
Perfectionist Pattern
Emotions: displays competence; is restrained and cautious
Goal: stability; predictable accomplishments
Judges others by: precise standards
Influences others by: attention to detail; accuracy
Value to the organization: is conscientious; maintains standards; controls quality
Overuses: procedures and “fail-safe” controls; overdependence on people, products, and processes that have worked in the past
Under pressure: becomes tactful and diplomatic
Fears: antagonism
Would increase effectiveness through: role flexibility; independence and interdependence; belief in self-worth
Perfectionists are systematic, precise thinkers and workers who follow procedure in both their personal and work lives. Extremely conscientious, they are diligent in work that requires attention to detail and accuracy. Because they desire stable conditions and predictable activities, Perfectionists are most comfortable in a clearly defined work environment. They want specifics on work expectations, time requirements, and evaluation procedures.
Perfectionists may become bogged down in the details of the decision-making process. They can make major decisions but may be criticized for the amount of time they take to gather and analyze information. Although they like to hear the opinions of their managers, Perfectionists take risks when they have facts that they can interpret and use to draw conclusions.
Perfectionists evaluate themselves and others by precise standards for achieving concrete results while adhering to standard operating procedures. This conscientious attention to standards and quality is valuable to the organization. Perfectionists may define their worth too much by what they do and not by who they are as people. As a result, they tend to react to personal compliments by thinking, “What does this person want?” By accepting sincere compliments, Perfectionists can increase their self-confidence.
Astrophysicist Dr. Neil DeGrasse Tyson was asked by a reader of TIME magazine, “What is the most astounding fact you can share with us about the Universe?” This is his answer.
Is Greta Christina ever going to write something I don’t want to stand up and cheer about???
Read it!
You know how we Canadians just loooovvveee it when someone from the U.S. even mentions that we exist? Well Blag Hag author Jen McCreight has an entire post about her visit to Victoria, British Columbia.
(p.s. Send her some chocolate!)
Here’s a post from The Friendly Atheist: Heading Into The Man Cave
The video makes fun of men for not knowing this stuff but I honestly don’t think most women do either.
But a person running for PRESIDENT not knowing it? I don’t follow U.S. politics much but …. are you freakin’ serious??? Are you trying to go back to the stone age?? How are you going to remain a world power when this is the kind of thing you are spending your time, money, and resources on? Sad and scary.
Well – we’re headed in the right direction anyway:
Left Christianity 