Written by Linda Mitchell, the founder of Living Inspired Coaching.
Have you caught yourself thinking with a scarcity mindset? These types of thoughts come from a scarcity mindset: there isn’t enough, I can’t do that, it’s already been done, this will never work, it’s too scary, etc. It’s an easy rabbit-hole to go down but if you catch yourself, you can flip the switch. What would it be like to adopt an abundance mindset and squash that scarcity mindset?
An abundant thinker welcomes competition, looks for collaboration opportunities and feels optimistic about the future. It’s not about a winner and a loser. There are many winners because there’s enough for everyone. With an abundance mindset you’ll feel more in control of your life. You’ll feel empowered, more engaged and more positive about life in general.
Those are some pretty great benefits, so let’s start with some foundational concepts for cultivating one.
Think big and see the big picture. When setting big goals immediately start believing you're capable of achieving it. You’ll see it when you believe it - read that sentence again - because it’s true!
Positivity is pivotal. An important part of cultivating an abundance mindset is the practice of finding good in any situation. Are you a glass half-empty or a glass half-full type of person? If you're not quite there, don’t worry. Optimism is a trait you can develop. You can train yourself to be more positive and as a result, you’ll also be happier and more abundant.
Expect good outcomes. In addition to the happiness that optimism brings, it can also make you wealthier and healthier. How? When you expect good outcomes, you more readily take consistent action to make them happen. Foster optimism daily by squashing the negative self-talk in your head and choosing more empowering words instead: I can and I will, I've got this, there’s a solution, etc. These positive phrases prime your subconscious, help re-wire your brain for success and reinforce self-confidence.
“An abundant thinker welcomes competition, looks for collaboration opportunities and feels optimistic about the future. ”
Set a daily intention. Before stepping out of bed, take a moment to set your intention for the day. There are many different ways to do this but begin by simply choose a word or phrase that resonates with the energy, spirit, or attitude you want to carry throughout your day. This will be your compass, helping focus your thoughts, energy and time more effectively.
Celebrate the success of others. When people close to you achieve something, feel happy for them, even if it's something you also want. Just because they have it doesn't mean you can't. The success of others is not your failure; it just proves it can be done. And, you can too! Recognize that there are plenty of opportunities and there is enough for everyone. Be proactive and keep an open mind. Remain in the energy of celebration, possibility and expectation.
Practicing gratitude is another important piece. Every morning name one reason you’re grateful for the day ahead. Every evening before bed identify at least one thing you’re grateful for. When you dwell in gratitude regularly, you expand the positive circumstances, relationships and energy in your life. The more you practice gratitude the more you’ll find to be grateful for – it’s a self-fulfilling prophecy which certainly leads to more abundance and a more joyful state of being.
Abundance is about much more than money and finances. An abundance mindset is about the expansion of possibility. It’s about the expectation of success, joy, love, good fortune and enjoyable relationships. Adopt an abundance mindset and watch each of these expand in your life!