It's easy to fall into the habit of thinking about what we don’t have or what we don't want to experience. But this kind of mindset is limiting and prevents us from living our best life.
Here are seven reasons why focusing on what we have and what we want is a more positive and productive way to move forward:
Gratitude - When we focus on what we have, we can appreciate the beauty and blessings that already exist in our lives. Constantly thinking about what we lack can only lead to feelings of inadequacy. Gratitude helps us recognize the wonderful things surrounding us, and research has shown that gratitude is linked to better physical and mental health.
Attracting Abundance - The energy we put into the world is what we tend to receive back.
Albert Einstein once said, “Everything is energy, and that’s all there is to it. Match the frequency of the reality you want and you cannot help but get that reality. It can be no other way. This is not philosophy. This is physics.”
Focusing on abundance instead of lack can help us attract positivity into our lives. When we focus on what we envision for our future, our intentions become clearer, and we become more aware of opportunities that can bring us closer to our goals. The key to attracting abundance, however, is to generate the feelings in the present moment that you would feel once you “have” it—like attracts like.
Self-Empowerment - We have the power to decide where we put our attention. Every decision we make and thought we have is a vote for or against the person we want to become and the future we envision for ourselves. This growth vs. victim mindset gives us a sense of control and allows us to make choices that align with our values and desires. When we hold ourselves personally accountable for how our life unfolds, we become unstoppable because we no longer tolerate our own excuses.
Stress Reduction - Worrying about what we don't have or don’t want to experience can be mentally exhausting. We are constantly creating problems that don’t exist, leading to toxic and habitual “dooms day” ruminating or “poor me” narratives. It's like running a race with no finish line. When we realize that access to “basic needs” like shelter, food, water, and health is something to be grateful for, everything else is a bonus! Remember, happiness is a feeling, and feelings are generated from within based on YOUR appreciation for something or someone. Appreciate what you have, and you can find contentment and fulfillment. This I promise you.
Positive Mindset - Our thoughts have a powerful impact on our emotions and actions. When we focus on what we have and what we want, it can create a more positive mindset. This, in turn, can lead to a more optimistic outlook on life and an increased sense of well-being.
Motivation - When we clearly connect to and understand WHY we want what we want, our drive to take action is automatic. When we resist that urge to act due to fear, we resort to a scarcity mindset of lack and worry. Staying focused on our desires and goals can help us stay on track and drive us toward our dream.
Appreciation of the Journey - Getting caught up in the destination is easy, but the journey is where we learn, grow, and experience life. So, enjoy the ride and celebrate your progress along the way.
Focusing on what we have is a powerful tool for creating a more positive and fulfilling life. It helps us cultivate gratitude, attract abundance, and appreciate the journey we're on. When we focus on abundance and gratitude, we can attract more positivity into our lives, leading to a more optimistic mindset, increased motivation, and overall well-being. So, let's shift our focus towards what we have and what we want, rather than what we don't have and don't want. Start by reflecting on what you're grateful for and what you'd like to accomplish, and watch as your perspective and life shift for the better.