When was the last time you played a zero-sum game?

Do you think of life as a zero-sum game?

If you’re not sure what zero-sum is, then let me help you. Zero-sum is a situation or game where again by one is offset by an equal loss by another.

Most games, especially in the world of sports, are zero-sum games defined by a clear winner and loser. And of course, board games and alike are also designed with zero-sum in mind.

When it comes to games, zero-sum thinking is fine since most games are played for fun, but if you go through life with a zero-sum perspective, then you’re working from a position of scarcity. You’re watching other people succeed and feeling that it’s at your expense. They win, and you lose.

Is it true that when others win or succeed you lose?

There might be times when you feel that it’s true. For example, if you’re in the final selection for a team or a job and another candidate is given the position, you might feel that their win is your loss. And while there’s real pain associated with your loss, losing that one opportunity doesn’t mean that all the opportunities are gone. It’s just that one.

Shifting or moving away from zero-sum-based thinking requires you to change your belief from scarcity-minded to one of abundant thinking. This can be difficult, especially if you’ve been taught to believe that another person’s gain is your loss. But it is possible and beneficial for your mental wellbeing to change your perspective.

Moving from a scarcity mindset to an abundant one moves you from being competitive to collaborative, which, over time, is better for you and those around you.

So, the next time you find yourself thinking that someone else’s gain is your loss, remind yourself that life is not a zero-sum game and that opportunities are abundant for you to succeed too. You might be surprised how many more opportunities you’ll begin to see once you open yourself up to looking for them.

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