Do you ever feel like there's not enough to go around? Like resources are limited and you're in constant competition for them? If that's the case, you might be stuck in a scarcity mindset. Don't freak out though, it's okay. With a simple shift in thinking and a few action steps, you can move into an abundance mindset.
As part of my 100 videos in 100 Days challenge, I decided to delve in to the topic of abundance mindset and clearly mental blocks to make us better manifestors. So… what's the difference, and how can you make the switch? Let's explore how shifting your perspective can unlock new opportunities and improve your well-being.
Scarcity vs. Abundance: What's the Difference?
Imagine two friends, let's call them Juniper and Emily. You get a new car, something you've always wanted. Juniper is thrilled for you, eager to celebrate your success. Emily, on the other hand, seems a bit put out. She makes little digs about your new car. Maybe she implies it's impractical or too flashy. She even goes as far as to say her car is better than yours.
Juniper has an abundance mindset. She believes your success doesn't diminish her own. Emily operates from a place of scarcity. She sees your win as her loss. People with an abundance mindset believe there are plenty of opportunities for everyone. Your success doesn't hinder them.
Someone with a scarcity mindset sees resources as limited. They view your success as competition. Who would you rather spend time with? The friend who cheers you on, or the one who's secretly jealous?
For me, the answer is clear and I'd be willing to bet that it is for you too.
Are You Programmed for Scarcity?
Think back to your childhood. Did your parents often say things like, “we can't afford it” or “that's too expensive”? Regardless of wether you were raised in a lower, middle, or upper class family, constant talk of financial limitations can create a scarcity mindset.
Let's put it this way. Imagine a child begging their mom to go to a specific restaurant. In one scenario, the mom says, “no, honey, we can't afford it.” In another, she might say, “no, honey, we're going to eat at home tonight.” The result is the same, but the message is different. The first response instills a sense of lack and limited resources. The second merely addresses the question of the restaurant without embedding scarcity in the child.
This constant scarcity programming can lead you to believe you're trapped in a world of limited resources. It can shape your perspective on life. But there is a way to break free and move into abundance mindset regardless of how you were raised.
For more information on signs you may be stuck in scarcity mode, check out this article from Sage&Salt.
Rich Dad, Poor Dad: A Lesson in Mindset
When I was in college, I read Robert Kiyosaki's book, Rich Dad Poor Dad. This book highlights the difference between scarcity and abundance mindset.
Kiyosaki contrasts his biological father (“Poor Dad”) with his friend's father (“Rich Dad”). His “Poor Dad” held a traditional job and worried about money. He feared risk. The “Rich Dad” believed resources were unlimited, embraced risk, and saw collaboration where others saw competition.
Reading this book was a powerful lesson in mindset for me. It helped me recognize the mentality I was raised with and empower me to choose a different path. I think I was always the type of person who saw resources as bountiful and opportunities everywhere, so embracing abundance was like a permission to be who I had been all along.
Shifting to Abundance, Even When It's Tough
Even when facing challenges, maintaining an abundance mindset can be transformative. When I was a single mom on welfare, I still did not see my life and possibilities and limited. I contributed what I had. My resources were not financial, but I helped by cooking, cleaning, and giving my time.
Instead of focusing on lack, I chose to contribute what I had. My friends and I created a small community in which we helped one another, each bringing different resources to the table. Because we each had an abundance mindset, we were able to share and grow together.
We all have something that can be useful to someone else. Spread the love and use your skills to help others. Share your time, energy, and resources. This spirit of generosity attracts more abundance into your life.
Why Does Mindset Matter?
Why bother shifting from scarcity mindset to abundance mindset? Because it unlocks potential and creates opportunities. An abundance mindset helps you to create and fulfill stronger, deeper relationships, improve your mental health, and unlock more opportunities.
How to Cultivate an Abundance Mindset
So, how do you actually create a more abundant mentality? Here are four steps to get you started.
Practice Gratitude
Gratitude is powerful. When you focus on what you have, you attract more positivity into your life. Keep a journal by your bed. Each night, write down three things you're grateful for. This simple practice can shift your mindset and prime you for a restorative night of sleep.
Celebrate Others' Wins
Be genuinely happy for your friends' successes. Cheer them on without thinking about how their wins affect you. Understand that no one else's success or failure has anything to do with your own. Celebrate your friends' wins wholeheartedly.
Share What You Have
Resources aren't always financial. Share your time, expertise, and knowledge. If you have a house, offer a friend a place to stay. If you can cook, offer them a meal. Tip people well. Pay people what they deserve. Your resources are valuable, and sharing them creates a cycle of abundance.
Reframe Negative Thoughts
This is often the most challenging step. Take every negative thought and reframe it positively. Write down the negative thought in your journal. Then, write down a positive counter-thought. Cross out the negative and focus on the positive. Instead of saying, “I'll never get there,” say, “this challenge will help me grow.” Use affirmations and motivational quotes to reinforce your new mindset.
Common Myths About Abundance Mentality
There are a couple of common misconceptions about the abundance mindset. Let's debunk them:
- It's all about money: Abundance isn't just about finances. It's about sharing your time, skills, and other resources.
- If I share, I'll run out: Giving doesn't diminish what you have. It creates a cycle of abundance. The good you put out into the world grows infinitely.
Start Thinking Abundantly Today
Take one small step today. Help a friend, offer encouragement, and ask yourself: In what area am I willing to start thinking abundantly today, and what shift am I willing to start doing today?
You already have more than you think you do. Start acting like it, and watch as it grows.