It takes conscious effort for me to turn from the prevailing perspective of scarcity. It’s easy to feel afraid because of the way things are in the world today. The economy, climate change, and artificial intelligence cause most people to feel like they’re losing things that are precious to them: financial security, a healthy planet and human autonomy. An understandable reaction would be to hold on tight to what we’ve got and see it as scarce. When I look at the world from a perspective of scarcity, I feel anxious and I freeze. I’m trying to change my perspective, to allow myself to grow.
Creativity Is Endless
I’m writing from a perspective of abundance rather than scarcity. Abundance reminds me that there is an endless amount of ideas out there for me to write about. One trip to my local Book City confirms my point of view. Look at all the ideas in all the books, and these are only the ones in English, in this shop, at this time in history! There is no need to worry about writer’s block. There will always be ideas to write about. Creativity really is endless.
Mindset Is A Choice
It’s not a “Polly-Anna*” mindset. I’m not ignoring the realities of my life and the world. I’m grateful for what I have. I can choose how I want to view my life situation and the world. We all have that choice. Having a mindset of scarcity and fear will not serve me on my retirement journey.
A person with a scarcity mentality believes there is insufficient time or resources to achieve their goals. They tend to experience more negative thoughts, operate from feelings of scarcity, and fixate on short-term thinking.”**
Choosing Abundance Is Choosing Hope Over Fear
From the point of view of abundance, there is hope for the future. There is enough for me and I am enough to achieve my goals. Given the choice, why wouldn’t I choose abundance? I’m embracing the possibilities!
** To read more about scarcity and abundance perspectives, click here.
Click here for 5 ways to grow an abundant mindset in the business world.
Retired, And Now What? 