Abundance

November 10, 2023

A mindset of scarcity blocks us from abundance. We choose something we value, and we think it is our life’s blood. In scarcity, we focus on accumulating and protecting our most valued things because we fear losing them. Therefore, we stockpile these things to prevent our life’s blood from “hemorrhaging.” Some may call this approach self-reliance, and others may call it isolationist or the silo phenomenon. In any case, the mindset of scarcity thinks that abundance is created only by our own efforts.

In Enneagram studies, the mindset of scarcity is consistent with Ego Stinginess, which is at Point Five. Type Five’s central issue (and delusion) is that what we need and desire the most is scarce. Not only Five’s are predisposed to this mindset.

All nine types tend to collect and withhold what they experience as scarce. For example, the Ego Type Nine avoids conflict and is known for putting themselves last and not mattering. They also self-narcotize to avoid conflict. Perhaps their method of self-narcotization is sleep; another may be food and yet another is gaming. Nines guard the methods they use to self-narcotize. They are fiercely protective of and can even be stingy with those things. We can find forms of stinginess in each Enneagram type because each style has its “sacred cow” that is vulnerable to scarcity.

But when we live in the mindset of abundance, we are not anxious that our good will stop flowing to us. Instead, we expect our good will always flow, even if not how we anticipate it. The mindset of abundance is based on our belief that, because we are involved in the cycle of giving and receiving, the natural result is abundance.

Inquiry: What are three ways you feel involved in the giving and receiving cycle?

Dear God,

When I find myself outside the flow, I realize I cannot make the flow happen in my own power. I can feel true abundance only in involving myself with my brothers and sisters. I humbly pray to be in the flow. Amen.

To receive Dr. Howell’s Reflections in your inbox everyday, complete the form below to begin your journey into who God has made you to be. The path to wholeness starts now!