Overcoming the Scarcity Mentality

In my work I often encounter leaders who struggle with a scarcity mentality as opposed to having an abundance mentality. From the web: “A scarcity mentality, or scarcity mindset, is a psychological state where individuals believe there is never enough of something, whether it's time, money, love, or opportunities. This mindset often leads to a focus on what's lacking rather than what's available, potentially causing anxiety, poor decision-making, and a feeling of being stuck.”

Some 40+ years ago I was sitting in a therapy group bemoaning the fact that I didn’t have a girlfriend. The therapist, who was like a second father to me, said: “There is love all around you when you’re ready to see it.” Well, this rocked my world, and it wasn’t too long after that that I met my wonderful wife of 40+ years.

Leaders can fall prey to scarcity mentality when it comes to achieving the business and personal success they desire. Here are some examples with abundance alternatives:

·         I’m not smart enough. Intellect is important, but not the most important thing. Emotional intelligence often makes more difference in the long run.  

·         I didn’t go to a good enough school. Most CEOs didn’t go to Ivy League schools. Some very successful and happy people have very little formal education.

·         I’m not attractive enough. For what? Beautiful people have unique challenges because people don’t see them beneath their skin.

·         Everyone should like me, and they don’t. Seriously? The jerks too?

·         I’m not good at everything. Correct, so surround yourself with skilled people.

·         I’ll never be as successful as (fill in the blank). It’s good to learn from others, but comparing yourself mostly leads to feeling unnecessarily “less than.”

·         There’s a lot of competition in my business. That’s a good thing. That likely means that there’s plenty of money and happiness to be had.

There is abundance all around you when you’re ready to see it.

Don’t be a stranger. (770) 993-1129. tdockery@TheResolveFirm.com