Abstract
This dissertation utilized a three-manuscript approach and is comprised of five chapters. They are 1) Chapter 1- Introduction, 2) Chapter 2 - Manuscript 1: Integrative Literature Review, 3) Chapter 3 - Manuscript 2: Delphi Study, 4) Chapter 4 - Manuscript 3: Focus Group, 5) Chapter 5 - Conclusions. The purpose of the study was to develop a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of a disposition or spirit of abundance, to study the effects of a spirit of abundance as it relates to an individual’s overall mental health and ability to be a lifelong learner, identify specific practices which lead to the development of a spirit of abundance, and explore the relationship between a spirit of abundance and the concept of enough. This empirical study proposed a definition of a spirit of abundance. It states, “Someone who consistently expresses gratitude, displays warm and caring affection towards others, engages in acts of kindness and generosity, finds joy in life, maintains an optimistic outlook, embraces a sense of enough, and pursues their life goals with self-assurance, determination, balance, and intention.” This study identified that a sense of enough may be a mindset, while a spirit of abundance may be a disposition. It is possible that an individual must develop the mindset of enough to fully embrace an action-oriented disposition of abundance. A process model was proposed for a spirit of abundance. As with profound living, there is not an end goal or a destination but a continuous process of becoming. All elements of this model were captured from the Delphi study results and reinforced through the focus group.