by Mary Cantando, Founder of The Woman’s Advantage, Guest Contributor

One of the key elements we discuss in The Woman’s Advantage® Forum is that of abundance vs scarcity. To be successful, you must find and create opportunities, rather than merely “putting up with” things. An abundant life is not based on luck, but on hard work and good decision making. There’s no reason why you can’t live the most abundant life imaginable.

Five Keys to Living an Abundant Life

1. Translate negative events from problems to opportunities.

When potential problems cross your path, look for the opportunities hidden within. They are there.

2. Divorce yourself from those with a poverty or victimization mentality.

Spend as little time as possible with those who want to drag you into their negative mindset.

3. Absolutely believe that you can control your life.

Understand that you are not being driven by outside forces of society and economics. No matter what you encounter, YOU are in the driver’s seat of your life.

4. Avoid jealousy when someone gets a better “deal” than you.

You won’t always come out on the top of the pile, but if you’re reading this message on a computer, you are better off than 90% of the world’s population.

5. Take prudent risks.

The only way you can coast is downhill.You have to take a few risks and step out of your comfort zone to live an abundant life.