I am not sure who coined the term “scarcity mindset,” but I can attest to its negative influence. Scarcity mindset is basically the fear that stems from the idea that there will never be enough—be it food, money, love, support, emotions etc. When we are in this mindset all of our actions are based from this false belief that we lack something or from the fear that actions we take will put ourselves into a state of lacking.

I have experienced this when it comes to my novel ideas. Not in the sense that my words are lacking (because anyone who has met me will tell you I have yet to be at a loss for words), but in being protective of my manuscript and the plot within. In the past—especially during the first few months of writing it—I was hesitant to explain to someone what my novel was about. This was largely due to the fear that they would somehow steal my idea and present it in a more powerful way and get it published before I had the chance. However, I am realizing that this response was largely based in fear because I was afraid there wouldn’t be space in the market for my book as well as a similar book. Scarcity mindset at its finest. I was afraid this fictitious plagiarist’s voice would overpower mine, but even if there were similarities no one can write exactly what I see in my mind’s eye. My voice will be unique because it is mine. Just like their voice would be unique; just as you, too, have a unique voice.

The thing with scarcity mindset is that is rarely exists exclusively in one part of your life. This mindset has danced the lines of my author-self and my personal life. Allowing this mindset to exist kept me in situations that were unhealthy and kept me from being brave enough to experience new situations that may have made the road I’ve walked a little less rocky. However, I have realized that this limited (and limiting) state of mind is a lie. I have yet to starve emotionally, physically, or creatively. All of those nagging doubts were just my brain’s way of attempting to safe-guard me from potential hurt or failure. I am thankful for my brain for attempting to keep my thoughts, emotions, and body safe, but sometimes the risk is what brings the most reward. It is time for me to rewire my brain to understand what risks pose little threat to my career, person, and livelihood, and which risks are actually worth the warning bells.

For every story written—and every story that is yet to be written—there will be someone out there who is drawn to it, just as there will be someone who does not resonate with it. There will be authors who have a similar style. We are all human and share the same emotions and are influenced by our surroundings so for just as many similarities there may be, there will always be more than enough differences to allow each voice to be unique.

There is more than enough creative space in the world for all of our voices to be heard. Let me repeat that a little louder for the people in the back: there is more than enough creative space in the world for all of our voices to be heard. That is one of the main reasons I created this blog; I am done hiding in the shadows and want my writing to finally be brought into the light.

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