To intentionally seek abundance you must first recognize the abundance in your life right now.
~ Angela Schaefers

Abundance is defined as; an extremely plentiful or over-sufficient quantity or supply. I have realized that I was a bit confused about the definition of abundance and how I defined it in my life. I had a mindset that there was not a great deal ‘extra‘ or ‘left over‘ of many things in my life. I did not enjoy an abundance of anything. Not wealth, not love, not material things etcetera.

And then as I continued to reflect on what is lacking in my life I had an aha moment. I had thought of myself as grateful and having an attitude of gratitude for all that I have and all that I have overcome. Part of my humility was this feeling and attitude of gratitude. I have known for a long time that I do have much more then many others, and not just in a physical sense, when I think of all the suffering happening in the world.

Yet suddenly I realized that I was not as grateful as I thought and I had much more abundance then I could have ever imagined. I grew up impoverished, in the sense of lacking what  the neighbors had, but not being in extreme poverty and lacking food, shelter and clothing. While I had my share not having enough or the best of any of those critical items at times, I also was never completely without. I also grew up lacking in an abundance of healthy love from others. Yet I did have love of sorts too.

I began to compare what I actually have had and not had through out my life to realize how much abundance I live with today. There is (in my opinion most importantly) an abundance of love (my relationships), things (both that I need and want), health (though not ideal I am healthier in some ways then many people) and so much more.

I then asked myself what is enough. When will I feel that I have an abundance of what I need and want? Today would be a good day! One of my life quotes is “I believe that today is enough, for tomorrow my never come”. That means that todays abundance is enough. Does this mean I do not seek, desire or work towards more abundance, whether physical or emotional? No. That would mean I have given up on the possibilities in life and simply accept that this is it. I don’t give up. Life has taught me that giving up is a frame of mind. I do not believe any of us were created to NOT have hopes and dreams, nor to not want more.

Part of my own mindset about abundance has been entangled with my feelings of self-worth. What do I think I deserve (false sense of entitlement) while at the same time I do not even recognize and appreciate what I do have? Why have I felt guilty and ashamed (a mindset of poverty, feeling undeserving) for wanting more? Uncovering your own mindset about abundance may help you recognize and appreciate the abundance you have and what more you desire.

Recognize the Abundance…

• Determine what is abundant in your life
• Be grateful and celebrate the abundance in your life
• Determine what more you desire in your life
• Desire (from your heart) and seek (from your mind) whatever your more is
• Think about how your life will be better AND how you can better affect others lives as your abundance grows

For myself I have committed to truly recognizing and celebrating the abundance in my life, including being grateful for all. And at the same time I am intentionally seeking and desiring more of all good things. More allows me to be a better person, to have more to share with others and to encourage others that more abundance is always a possibility. Abundance is a good thing!

May your cup overflow with an abundance of all that you desire. ♥

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