~4 Minute Read

(Past): Whimsical and hopeful, (Past) often reflects on the excitement and possibilities of previous endeavors, acknowledging both the triumphs and the lessons learned.

{Present}: Grounded in the here & now, {Present} grapples with the immediacy of every concern, trying to balance today’s tasks with a mindful approach.

[Future]: Ever the strategist, [Future] looks beyond the fray for sustainable solutions, envisioning a life where current efforts lead to long-term success.

Self: With wisdom and balance, Self guides the internal council, integrating insights from Past, Present, and Future to make compassionate and effective choices.

*Author’s note* As these characters are meant to embody each and every one of us, the accompanying images depict a shifting group of conversationalists.

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This week, our characters discern an Abundance Mindset from a Scarcity Mindset and how this shift in thinking can transform our approach to commitments and connections.

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Today, let’s talk about how we can move
from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset.
This shift can help us face our fears with curiosity and play,
and practice discernment in our relationships and environment.
Where should we begin?

(I always thought saying “yes” to every opportunity
was the only way to succeed.
We’ve been so scared of missing out!)

{We have.
But that led to overcommitment and burnout.
It felt like we were constantly trying to do everything for everyone.}

[We need to trust that there will be more opportunities.
An abundance mindset allows us to say “no” when necessary,
focusing on what’s truly meaningful and sustainable.]

Right.
So, how do we start shifting from scarcity to abundance?

(We need to trust that more good things are coming our way.
It comes down to believing that there’s enough
time,
opportunities,
and resources
for us all.)

{Let’s practice saying “no” without apology.
Discernment without guilt.
We can focus on what aligns with our goals and values,
knowing that by saying no to what’s out of alignment,
we’re making space for what truly matters.}

[We also need to face why we’re afraid
of letting others down
or disappointing them by
prioritizing our own bandwidth.
Curiosity can help us here.
Then, we can approach our next steps with play,
which can make the fear feel less daunting.]

Great points.
Facing fears with curiosity and play can transform our experience.
When we feel like we’re getting in our own way, let’s ask ourselves:
In what ways are we fighting ourselves?
How are we spending our efforts in our attempts to self-motivate?
With self-judgment, or self-compassion?
How can we practice discernment in our relationships and environment?

(Oh that will be hard.
It’s been so hard to find a sense of belonging,
and working so hard at it we always felt so inauthentic
Like we were lying to ourselves and others.
It left us feeling drained and unappreciated.)

{We need to be discerning about who we trust
and how much we share.
It’s okay to set boundaries
and only let people into our inner circle
if they’ve earned that trust.}

[We should also aim to be intentional about our environment.
Surrounding ourselves with supportive people
and inspiring projects
can help us stay motivated
and aligned with our goals.]

So I guess, it comes down to a number of new priorities:
setting healthy and sustainable boundaries,
being intentional with our time & energy,
and creating an environment that supports our growth.
Easier said than done, I’m sure.
Let’s pause to restore some energy
before we get into the details of enacting our new gameplan.

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Conclusion:

Shifting from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset requires trust, courage, and discernment. By facing our fears with curiosity and play, and being intentional about our relationships and environment, we can create a life that is fulfilling and sustainable.

Reflection Questions for your own
Journaling Journey

Shifting from Scarcity to Abundance Mindset:

1. What opportunities or resources do I fear are limited or scarce in my life?
2. How can I reframe these anxieties to focus on abundance and trust that more opportunities will come?
3. What can I say “no” to, in order to make space for what truly matters to me?

Facing Fears with Curiosity and Play:

1. What has been holding me back from pursuing my goals or dreams?
2. How can I approach these worries with curiosity to better understand their origins and impact?
3. What playful activities or mindsets can I adopt to make facing these challenges feel less daunting?

Practicing Discernment in Building Relationships and Managing Our Environment:

1. Who are the people in my life that truly support and uplift me? How can I spend more time with them?
2. What boundaries can I set to protect my emotional and mental well-being?
3. How can I create an environment (both physical and social) that aligns with my values and supports my personal growth?

Written by Elise Loprieno
Intention Consultant & LMFT
(In collaboration with a Large Language Model)

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