The conservation of energy is important to all living things. Generally speaking, animals are more likely to take the path of least resistance when confronted with a problem. Leopards run after the slowest gazelle in the herd, rather than the fastest, because it's easier to catch. Buffalos wade at the closest watering hole, rather than the farthest, because it requires less walking. Humans, likewise, will always look for solutions that cost the least amount of energy and effort....

Many types of stress are rooted in a scarcity mindset. You may obsess over not having enough free time, money, happiness, respect, love or companionship. The deprivation associated with a perceived lack of that which is fundamental to your well-being may turn into a preoccupation that influences every aspect of your day-to-day activities. While a scarcity mindset is the brain's natural biological reaction to the threat posed by inadequate resources at times, those who develop a constant...