For purposes of simplicity, let’s define anxiety as excessive worry that can result in fatigue, tension, difficulty sleeping and concentration problems. Anxiety can take a variety of forms, from generalized anxiety, which sticks with someone most of the day, to anxiety attacks, brief episodes that are extremely intense and often have physiological elements. Anxiety attacks can be so overwhelming, that they are frequently confused for a heart attack.

The causes of Anxiety are quite varied.

Apprehension about the future, medical concerns, feeling out of control, even fear of anxiety itself, can cause us problems. Perfectionism is one of those causes. In fact it is often intermingled with many other causes. Perfectionism is most easily seen in the Anxiety Disorder known as Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. There a is need for things to be done in a specific, often ritualized way and if it is not done as desired, fear of perceived consequences can become overwhelming. Often these required elements may not seem to have any real connection with the feared outcome.

Frequently, perfectionism takes on a spiritual element.

As Christians, we often feel the need to be “good enough”. When we are saved, it is as if we are making a commitment to be without sin or blemish from now on. I believe this to be a fallacy. In order to be saved we must depend upon God’s Grace. That does not change after salvation. In fact, as we mature we realize that our dependence on Grace is an eternal state. God loves us in spite of our failures and we must learn to take on an attitude of grace as we look at ourselves and as we relate to others.

Grace is not an excuse to just keep on sinning. Grace in fact introduces us to a new motivation to transform our lives, and thus avoid sin. God’s Grace is a direct result of His love for us, and our loving response is to allow that same Grace to penetrate our lives and transform the way we live.

As we take on this Gracious mind set, we are better able to reject perfectionistic thoughts.

Taking on new thoughts that are tinged with, understanding, forgiveness and compassion, goes a long ways toward overcoming the common perfectionistic roots of our anxiety. Looking at it from another direction, we may even be able to see our efforts of perfectionism as a hindrance to God’s purposes. Consider 2 Corinthians 12:9 (KJV):

“And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness.

Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

Written by Eric Clements, M.S.