The way one thinks influences how one chooses to see the world. His/her reactions to what happens, both major events and everyday ones, determines whether a person sees a constant lack of resources or opportunities in negative situations.
Scarcity as a way of thinking
People who see resources as scarce believe that since one has them, the other does not, so they work to attract as many as possible to themselves. For entrepreneurs, an important element of preparing for a new business is being aware of the necessary resources that need to be put in at the outset, and whether they are available or have yet to be secured.
The way language is used can suggest whether one has a mindset in which resources are scarce. For example, if they use the verb “takes” rather than “invests” for time, and talk about “status” rather than “contribution.”
Abundance as a mindset
In contrast, people with an abundance-focused mindset look for creative ways to turn a negative into a positive. They see a myriad of opportunities for impact and how through collaboration and teamwork, high results can be achieved without large resources being invested.
Transformation from scarcity to abundance
An attitude change can happen when one focuses on what is available. Instead of thinking about what is not there, it is good to consider what opportunity is on the horizon. An example of this is a career change. If one thinks about how there are not enough transferable skills to change the industry they work in, or despairs that there are few positions available while there is a lot of competition, this is scarce thinking. If, however, he uses the career break to think about what he actually wants to do next in his life, it’s a great opportunity.
Changing the way one looks at things also leads to a change of approach, and seeking a solution where both parties win, or at least don’t come out of the negotiation in a worse situation than they were before, provides more opportunities for positive development.
Expressing gratitude improves well-being. This small gesture of great meaning makes others feel good, but it also reminds a person that what is taken for granted should not be underestimated.
