The COVID-19 pandemic has many thinking about scarcity. I can remember my dad tell stories about rationing during World War II. While we’re not there (yet), there are those I talk to who have concerns about the availability of toilet paper, disinfecting wipes, hand soap, and hand sanitizer. These conversations reminded me of what Michael Hyatt described as scarcity thinking and abundance thinking in his book, Your Best Year Ever.
Scarcity thinkers are entitled and fearful, while abundance thinkers are thankful and confident.
Scarcity thinkers believe there will never be enough, while abundance thinkers believe there’s always more where that came from.
Scarcity thinkers are stingy with their knowledge, contacts and compassion, while abundance thinkers are happy to share their knowledge, contacts and compassion with others.
Scarcity thinkers assume they are the way they are, while abundance thinkers assume they can learn, grow and develop.
Scarcity thinkers default to suspicion and aloofness, while abundance thinkers default to trust and openness.
Scarcity thinkers resent competition, believing that it makes the pie smaller and them weaker. Abundance thinkers welcome competition, believing that it makes the pie bigger and them better.
Scarcity thinkers are pessimistic about the future, believing there are tough times ahead. On the other hand, abundance thinkers are optimistic about the future, believing the best is yet to come.
Scarcity thinkers see and focus on challenges as obstacles, while abundance thinkers see challenges as opportunities.
Finally, scarcity thinkers think small and avoid risk, while abundance thinkers think big and embrace risk.
You may have seen something like this from another source. You may even have something to add to Hyatt’s list. As people of faith and children of an Almighty God who created the universe, I’m not sure we have the option to choose scarcity. Scarcity is motivated by fear. Abundance is motivated by faith in the God who has promised a more abundant and meaninful life right now (John 10:10).
