Scarcity mindset vs Abundance mindset
What comes to mind when you think of money? Do you ever think to yourself, “Money is the root of all evil,” or even “Money isn’t that important”?
Those thoughts suggest you might have limiting beliefs about money.
Irrelevant of where we live, scarcity is the mindset of most people. It’s sad to say that people feel this way for the right reason in certain parts of the world. Housing, food, and clean water are in short supply in many regions of the world.
However, the media and advertisers play a significant role in shaping our scarcity thinking. As a result, we are encouraged to consume more and do more.
We believe that we need a better car, better clothes, or more income to impress the neighbours. So, it is understandable that we feel there is not enough for everyone.
Scarcity mindset puts a short-term focus on things.
When we overindulge in things, it’s generally because of a problematic belief beneath the surface. Overeating, drinking, taking drugs, gambling, shopping, sex, etc., are all possible addictions. However, all of them come with an instant reward that temporarily fixes a deeper issue of lack.
“See yourself living in abundance, and you will attract it. It always works. It works every time, with every person.”
~ Bob Proctor
A scarcity mindset prevents long-term goals. Instant gratification rules. How can you get it now? How much will I make?
Nothing is certain because someone you know might achieve something more than you. As a result, you only focus on things you can achieve quickly.
Scarcity mindsets can result in overeating and overspending. Better to eat or spend it now before it’s gone is a sad view of life.
Here are some ways to move from a mindset of scarcity to one of abundance:
Build on what you already have.
You might already have enough to feel grateful and positive. The moment you realise you have enough, you won’t be worried about losing it. There is plenty to go around.
Avoid complaining, people.
People with a scarcity mindset complain all the time. You are more vulnerable to others’ perspectives than you realise.
Place yourself in the company of positive people instead. Why waste your time with people who make your life difficult in a world with so many people?
Focus on what you can accomplish in the future.
Think about what you can gain rather than what you may lose. Embrace the future without fearing it.
Dream of an exciting future. Be optimistic about the future. That’s the essence of an abundance mindset.
Don’t waste your time.
Time is precious; do not waste it on frivolous things. Instead, make better use of your time, and you’ll have more of it.
Keep a journal.
Write positive things in it. Write down things you’re grateful for having. Mention the people in your life.
Most likely, you have a job, a home, a car, family, and close friends. That’s a great start to a good life.
Get organised.
An abundance mindset is greatly accelerated once you start to get organised.
Take time to organise your closet, garage, or attic. It’ll surprise you how many things you own.
Organising yourself will also free up more time. Upon realising you have more things and time than you would have imagined, you’ll think more abundantly.
“Worrying about scarcity is our culture’s version of post-traumatic stress. It happens when we’ve been through too much, and rather than coming together to heal (which requires vulnerability), we’re angry and scared and at each other’s throats.”
~ Brene Brown
Embrace generosity.
Sharing what you have will convince you that there is enough for everyone. As you share, others will want to share with you.
Generosity means your time, too.
Believing that there is enough for everyone is one of the first steps to having more. But, unfortunately, scarcity mindsets lead to defensiveness and self-protection.
Furthermore, you create the false belief that everything will be far more challenging than it should be. If you think something is difficult, you’re more likely to procrastinate or give up altogether.
Scarcity mindset is not inherited
A mindset of abundance won’t magically give you a Mercedes or increase the amount in your bank account. Nevertheless, you can make these types of life changes with enthusiasm by adopting the right attitude.
Scarcity mindsets are not inherited and that is good news. Change your perspective and change your life, as the saying goes.
You decide how you will live in this world. Abundance is a mindset. In helping others, you are also contributing to your growth.
Likewise, in rejoicing in another person’s success, you are adding to your success. Greed is not a formula for success. Instead, it is a temporary condition.
Stepping on others’ toes will eventually leave you all alone. Because of your fears, your chances of success are low, not because someone else has succeeded.
The take away:
A mindset of abundance can have a positive impact on your life. Having a growth mindset can shorten the path to your success and make it easier to take the daily actions necessary to achieve it.
With an abundance mindset, you’ll have more confidence and be more adaptable. Furthermore, you will become a better leader who inspires others.