How Mindset Shapes Opportunity in Our Communities
Recently, I was engaged in a thought-provoking conversation about why certain corporations choose not to invest in specific communities. The person I spoke with pointed out something many of us have noticed. Still, we may not want to say aloud: some neighborhoods, despite being well-populated, struggle to attract top-tier grocery stores, banks, or retail outlets. The reason, unfortunately, often comes down to crime and the costs that come with it.
A similar example played out in the Midwest, where a company opened a state-of-the-art grocery store in a low-income community. This store was celebrated nationally, even being featured on the Tom Joyner Morning Show. For a brief moment, it looked like a shining example of what was possible. But soon after, robberies, employee turnover, and theft, both internal and external, plagued the business. Eventually, the doors closed.
On the other hand, businesses that open in areas with lower crime and stronger community infrastructure often thrive. This isn’t about race; it’s about environment and mindset. Studies have shown that 80% of crime in most cities occurs in just 20% of the neighborhoods. And that statistic shapes how businesses decide where to plant their roots.
The “Virus” of Low-Income Thinking
During my recent cruise out of Long Beach, I sat down with a gentleman who spoke candidly about this issue. He used a metaphor that stuck with me. He said, “Low income is not just financial, it’s a virus.”
At first, I wanted to push back, but then he gave me an example. “If I told you I was on day two of the flu,” he said, “you would immediately step back, wash your hands, and protect yourself. That’s how people treat a broke mindset; it’s contagious, and no one wants to catch it.”
His words made me reflect. In radio, in speaking, and in business, I’ve seen firsthand how powerful a mindset can be. The gentleman went on to highlight an eye-opening truth: people who win millions in the lottery are often broke again within five years. Why? Because wealth without a plan and without a mindset shift is temporary.
What Mindset Really Means
The heart of his point was this: mindset shapes choices. In many low-income communities, the long-term plan is often missing. Retirement savings are rare. The hope is placed in sudden luck, such as a lottery ticket or an inheritance.
He also pointed to the PPP loan era. That money could have been used to start businesses, pay down debt, or reset financial foundations. Yet many people chose to buy flashy cars or things that depreciated instantly. Those choices reflect not just financial reality, but mindset.
The Missed Opportunities Around Us
On the cruise, we were seated in the business lounge. It was quiet, filled with free drinks, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating for 60 people. But only six people were there. “Most of the 98% on this ship don’t even know this space exists,” he said.
That observation hit me. Opportunity is often right in front of us, but if we don’t shift our awareness, we can miss it.
Building a Better Future
So, what’s the lesson here? It’s not to shame or judge anyone. It’s to recognize that the cycle of limitation begins and ends with mindset. Corporations may not be able to change that overnight. Governments and programs can only do so much. But each of us has the power to transform our outlook.
The gentleman I spoke with ended by saying, “I can’t fix the world. I can only fix what I can fix.” And he’s right. Each of us can choose to think differently, plan differently, and act differently. When one person in a family or community breaks the cycle, it can inspire others to do the same.
Mindset may feel contagious in a negative sense, but positivity, planning, and vision can be just as infectious. When we start to see opportunities instead of obstacles, we not only improve our own lives, but we also create a ripple effect that strengthens the entire community.