In life, we often hold ourselves back from things we truly want — whether it’s a new skill, an experience, or even a material object — because we feel like we can’t afford it or don’t deserve it. But what if we approached our desires differently? Instead of seeing them as out of reach, what if we saw them as opportunities for growth?
Let’s say you want an iPad that costs $600. Instead of simply telling yourself, I can’t afford it, shift your mindset to: How can I earn an extra $600 to get it? This approach changes everything. It turns the desire into a goal, and the goal into a plan. You might choose to invest more wisely, start a side hustle, take on freelance work, or find other ways to generate that extra income. In this process, you gain something far more valuable than just the iPad — you develop problem-solving skills, financial discipline, and a stronger work ethic.
Even if, after a year, you decide you no longer need the iPad, or it was a subscription you cancel, you haven’t lost anything. You’ve already gained experience, knowledge, and a mindset that will serve you for the next goal. The key takeaway here is that rather than depriving yourself, you make a conscious decision to work towards what you want — and in doing so, you grow.
Conclusion: A Win-Win Mindset
By shifting from a scarcity mindset (I can’t have this) to an abundance mindset (How can I make this happen?), you empower yourself. You take control of your goals instead of feeling limited by circumstances. This way, you’re not just working for an object — you’re building habits that create long-term success.
So, never starve yourself from something you truly want. Instead, make a plan, take action, and embrace the journey. Because no matter the outcome, you’ll always walk away with something valuable.