We are at a crossroads as human beings and as a country. Do we give into the negative zero-sum mentality of politicians on the left and the right, or, do we look at history and realize that this is the best time to be alive? It is my belief that society is on a perpetual upward path. For example, the statistics regarding life expectancy, homicide rates, global wealth, people in poverty, and literacy continue to improve. We rarely hear these stats because they do not sell. It is much easier to sell the negative. However, just as we move through the seasons, we cycle through good and bad times. Be ready for the winter but excited about the spring.
“The generation that has experienced more peace, freedom, leisure time, education, medicine, travel, movies, mobile phones and massages than any generation in history is lapping up gloom at every opportunity.” ― Matt Ridley, The Rational Optimist
We are on this journey together and as we bring others up, we expand the pie for everyone. Just because someone is getting better in this world, it does not mean that we are getting worse. We must have empathy for the less fortunate and realize that not all of us were given the same opportunities. I have never had to worry about where my next meal would come from. I have loving parents that are still married after 50 years. My parents taught me about life, hard work, and relationships. They showed me what love is. I realize that a lot of people did not have these examples or mentors in their lives. Most people are trying to take care of their families and do their best with what they have learned. While we have all had different experiences and opportunities, we are all on this journey together and we must support each other in each of our journeys.
“Abundance is not something we acquire. It is something we tune into.” – Wayne Dyer
I believe in looking at the world through the lens of abundance and realizing there is more than enough to go around. This outlook helps me have compassion for others. It allows me to make tough decisions because I am reminded that the world has so much to offer all of us if we are willing to go out and get it. Scarcity forces you to act from a place of fear, always worried there is never enough. When you have that attitude, you will create the circumstances that leave you lacking. I had this attitude for quite some time and can tell you that it does not lead to success or growth. If you’re scared or worried about the future, look inside yourself to determine what your limiting beliefs may be. No politician or government will save you. You have the power, but it takes work. That work can come in the form of prayer, meditation, journaling, exercise or learning new skills. In my opinion, all of the above are important and helped me transition from a scarcity mentality to an abundance mindset. What matters is taking action and not waiting for someone else to do it for you.
“If you want to change the world, start with yourself.” – Gandhi
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Originally published at www.thelonggame.co