Practicing Gratitude With an Abundance Mindset Amid Global Changes
November 22, 2024 | Written by Sree Ravela
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These days, we’re feeling the pressure of a world grappling with geopolitical tensions, economic unpredictability, and rising costs, leading us further into an uncertain future. We’re constantly seeing news of massive layoffs, adding to the day-to-day struggles millions of families face across the globe. To regulate our feelings and actions, regardless of current circumstances, we should aim for resilience and ethical growth by practicing gratitude with an abundance mindset.
Practicing Gratitude
In the words of neuroscientist, Dr. Joe Dispenza, “Gratitude is the highest state of receivership.” This focus on gratitude suggests a powerful shift in how we value what’s in front of us. By changing our inner perspectives, we can elevate ourselves above difficulties instead of getting stuck in an endless stream of thoughts. Start and end your day by identifying two to three things you are grateful for. Focus on what’s already present in your life, such as health, relationships, and opportunities.
“Gratitude is the highest state of receivership.”
Adopting an Abundance Mindset
For the past several months, financial pundits worldwide have been sharing their analyses about how upcoming global changes will likely further strain the world’s economic landscape. But when operating from a sense of “not enough,” we risk missing out on meaningful sustenance.
A scarcity mindset often leads to excessive competition or stress. However, an abundance mindset starts with acknowledging what you’re already blessed with. This way, you become more adept at spotting new opportunities and resources that might otherwise go unnoticed. I am inspired by Deepak Chopra’s insight about abundance, “When your mind and heart are truly open abundance will flow to you effortlessly and easily.” Gratitude manifests into fostering authentic, sustainable growth, both individually and as a community.
“When your mind and heart are truly open abundance will flow to you effortlessly and easily.”
Navigating Leadership During Economic Challenges
Gratitude is a powerful tool for transformation, enabling us to navigate challenges with resilience. An abundance mindset helps us maintain optimism for growth. Here are some practical behaviors for embodying these principles.
Steer growth through collaboration.
Identify opportunities to collaborate with both internal and external partners to enable new business capabilities or even enhance existing ones. Instead of competing for resources or recognition, work together with stakeholders to build business cases for projects that promote shared goals. Actively seek to exchange knowledge and cultivate a culture of support rather than competition.
Set an example through conscientious leadership.
When a challenging situation arises, take a moment to pause and think twice before reacting. Even taking a few deep breaths can help you respond more thoughtfully. I admit I’ve had a moment or two in my past where I lost my cool after repeatedly being subjected to the pedaling of falsified information. But upon reflection then making an effort to improve my spiritual quotient, I’ve since been able to manage my emotional responses to such challenges.
Leaders who can’t remain calm during unpredictable circumstances create an intense and unpleasant atmosphere, particularly during stressful periods. This not only adds to team anxiety but also leads to hasty decisions that are hard to justify later on. Embracing calmness reminds us that the best response is to address situations with clarity and compassion instead of rushing to next steps.
Be intentional about helping others succeed.
As a leader, you no longer promote your individual success—upon assuming a leadership role, you prop up your team’s success. Openly recognize and support the achievements of others without perceiving their success as a threat. This could mean celebrating a peer’s accomplishments, mentoring a colleague, or simply providing resources without expecting anything in return.
Adopting an abundance mindset teaches us that there is enough success to go around for everyone. Promoting the growth of others cultivates a more generous atmosphere, creating a supportive network and camaraderie that elevates everyone involved.
Replace comparison with self-reflection.
Regularly assess your growth and progress based on your own set of criteria rather than constantly measuring yourself against others. Continuous comparison can foster a scarcity mindset, leaving us feeling insufficient. However, practicing gratitude and self-reflection nurtures appreciation, enabling us to pursue meaningful goals without the pressure to maliciously outshine others.
As we approach the Thanksgiving holidays in North America, remembering to live graciously with an abundance mindset brings us back to appreciating what we already have and using it to its fullest. Be intentional about building a resilient, compassionate life that lifts others along the way. Practicing gratitude with an openness to abundance offers a path to creating a world that grows both sustainably and harmoniously.