Building an Abundance Mentality to Launch Forward
If you’ve ever stayed too long in a job, relationship, or routine because it felt like the only option, you’ve likely experienced scarcity thinking — even if you didn’t realize it. It’s subtle, but powerful. It keeps you stuck by convincing you that change is risky and resources are limited.
Shifting to an abundance mentality doesn’t mean pretending everything is perfect. It means learning to see possibilities instead of dead ends and building the confidence to move when something no longer fits.
Abundance mentality vs. scarcity mentality
A scarcity mentality is the belief that there’s not enough to go around — not enough time, money, opportunities, love, or success. It often shows up as fear of missing out, staying in safe zones, or resenting others who have what you want.
Examples of a scarcity mindset:
Staying in a draining job because “it’s hard to find something better.”
Settling in a relationship that isn’t fulfilling because “what if this is as good as it gets?”
Avoiding collaboration because you think other people’s success limits yours.
Feeling upset when someone makes more money than you because you feel there’s a finite amount of money to go around.
An abundance mentality, on the other hand, assumes that there are always options. If something doesn’t work out, something else will. It’s a mindset rooted in self-trust and a long-term view.
Example of abundance mindset:
Leaving a job that doesn’t align with your goals because you trust your ability to pivot.
Ending a relationship that isn’t working because you believe healthier connections exist.
Supporting others' wins without feeling like yours are any less valid.
How abundance mentality lets you grow
An abundance mindset gives you room to pivot. When something feels off, you’re more likely to make a change instead of staying stuck out of fear.
It also improves how you set boundaries. You’re less likely to tolerate poor treatment — in work or relationships — if you believe better options are out there. It becomes easier to walk away, reframe failure, and seek out environments that align with your values.
Growth requires movement. And movement often starts with believing that new opportunities exist.
How to switch to an abundance mentality
You don’t need to overhaul your mindset overnight. Start with these small shifts:
Notice where you feel limited. Is it your career, finances, or relationships? Get specific about where scarcity shows up.
Challenge default thoughts. Instead of “I can’t,” try “What’s another way?” or “Who’s already doing this differently?”
Practice low-risk decisions. Try saying no to something that isn’t working, even if it’s small — and see what opens up.
Limit comparison. Other people’s success doesn’t shrink your chances. In fact, it’s proof that your goals are possible too.
Surround yourself with examples of abundance. Seek out people, stories, or communities that reflect the mindset you want to build.
You can also practice flipping the script. Like our solution to feeling jealous of others, you can change how you frame statements in your mind. Instead of thinking “I can’t go on that vacation, it’s unfair someone else can”, try thinking “I could go on that vacation, but the extra hours of work it will take me to afford it aren’t worth it to me.”
Books on abundance mentality
Ready to dive deeper into changing your mindset? These books can help guide you.
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
A classic that introduced the concept of abundance thinking.The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks
Focuses on expanding your capacity for success without self-sabotage.You Are a Badass at Making Money by Jen Sincero
A practical take on shifting your money mindset toward abundance.Everything Is Figureoutable by Marie Forleo
Encourages belief in your ability to adapt and solve problems creatively.
Overall, switching your mentality from limiting beliefs to seeing open doors improves happiness and helps you achieve success. Some easy mindset shifts can help you get there.
