A person with an Abundance Mentality operates from the paradigm that we live in a synergistic as opposed to zero-sum universe.
Zero-sum means that the whole is equal to the sum of its parts, so any one person’s gain is exactly equal to someone else’s loss. For example, a pie with 8 pieces could be described as zero-sum because if I take 4 pieces, then I have reduced your possible gain by exactly 4 pieces.
Synergy is when the whole of something is greater than the sum of its parts, so one person’s gain is not necessarily someone else’s loss. This suggests that when each part contributes value, there is an added benefit from the interaction of the parts. Synergistic situations are frequently referred to as win/win.
When someone has an abundance mentality, they are secure and confident because they are not worried about other people getting “ahead” of them. They are able to work in teams and often emerge as leaders. They are willing to make sacrifices for others.
In order to have an abundance mentality, a person must also value delayed gratification because the rewards are not always immediately apparent. Abundance mentality can not exist in a world of instant gratification, because creating synergy among people is hard work.