Possibility or Scarcity: It Depends on the Lens

While hiking through the Grand Canyon my family, we came upon this ridge with the most stunning views overlooking the canyon.

But over to our right was an ugly cluster of trees burned to their roots by wildfires.

At first glance, we were disheartened because we saw an area of scarcity where we thought there should be beauty.

Then, our guide explained this devastation was actually the result of something called “sparking,” a controlled forest burn where fires are intentionally set to spur new growth in the area.

It seems counterintuitive, I know. But it makes sense when you think about it. We have to burn away the old to make room for the new.

It reminded me that we tend to see our lives and organizations through the lens of scarcity. But the reality is, new growth and fresh possibilities are emerging.

We’re managing our own forests every day—working hard to nurture our teams and organizations, watching as they grow, taking pride in every new phase, building on every milestone.

When we’re forced to burn away parts of our mission, organization or careers that aren’t serving us anymore—the first thing we see is a vacant space. But it doesn’t have to be that way. 

Looking at your life and organization through the lens of possibility shifts your entire mindset. It transforms emptiness into abundance and loss into growth.

How we see and engage with the world around us is directly linked to the stories we tell ourselves. Even in times of loss or uncertainty—our story is never over. It’s just becoming something new.

How we react to that transformation, and the next steps we take toward the future, wholly depend on which lens we’re looking through.

What do you see when you look through the lens of possibility instead of scarcity?

Jason BargerJason V. Barger is a globally celebrated keynote speaker, leadership coach and author of Thermostat CulturesStep Back from the Baggage Claim and ReMember. He is founder of Step Back Leadership Consulting, a Columbus-based company that works with businesses and organizations worldwide. Connect via email at jason@JasonVBarger.com or on social media at @JasonVBarger.

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