You’ve Got More Than You Know

Why do some executives operate in an abundance mindset while others seem to have a scarcity mindset? Like tree leaves gasping for air and grappling for sun, perhaps the level of competition in business has us striving to secure–or even grow–our position in that dense forest of rivalry. When we perceive competition for power, resources, customers, etc., this can create that mindset of scarcity, which is one that doesn’t serve its owner well.

One form of scarcity is induced by demand. When I consider the pressures placed on executives, they seem to increase daily while supply (i.e., whatever an executive has to give to their work) might be viewed as a constant. But is it?

Isn’t it feasible that our supply of energy can be depleted when bombarded with daily challenges at work and/or at home? As an experienced executive myself, I say a resounding ‘yes’ – my energy can be easily zapped! However, as a Leadership Catalyst, I explore what happens below the surface, at the roots: There, we find an abundance of resources.

An executive often draws, from his/her experience, an inner well that can quench and energize. Some may call this motivation or engagement — I see it as a kind of renewable energy that is sourced from our creativity. This source allows us to transform our own supply into something that can far outweigh the demands put on us.

Many of you have experienced the positive impact of creative actions such as: the willingness to loosen your grip, leaning into differing views with greater curiosity, and approaching your world with more levity. Space, openness, abundance…these are just some antidotes for a scarcity mindset and the fear behind it. You have a lot of these available to you, perhaps more than you realize.

This Week: Where do you currently feel constrained, perhaps causing you to feel zapped of energy? Write down the first couple thoughts or senses that come to mind. Then, answer two questions: What do I want here? What would be at risk if I approached the situation with greater ease or lightness? Assess your desires against the risks and choose one area where you believe you can take fruitful action.

In Next Week’s Post: Empowering others