Have you ever looked at someone thriving with fewer resources than you and wondered, “How do they do it?” The secret isn’t luck—it’s resourcefulness. Some of the most successful people didn’t start with everything they needed; they figured out how to make the most of what they had. Resourcefulness is about seeing possibilities where others see obstacles and turning limitations into opportunities.

Start by assessing what’s already at your disposal. What skills, tools, or connections have you overlooked? That outdated laptop you’ve written off could be the foundation of a side hustle. Your LinkedIn connections might include someone who can mentor you. The key is curiosity and creativity. Lisa Nichols once said, “Your biggest resource is resourcefulness.” How can you stretch what you already have? Consider bartering skills, repurposing tools, or taking advantage of free resources, such as online courses and community workshops.

Being resourceful also means taking initiative. If you’re waiting for the perfect moment or unlimited funding, you’re wasting valuable time. Start with small steps. If you dream of launching a business but lack capital, explore crowdfunding platforms like Kickstarter or GoFundMe. Need to build a new skill? Platforms like UKETA Learning and YouTube offer free training in almost any subject. The internet is an endless well of opportunities if you know where to look.

Some of the world’s most inspiring entrepreneurs built their success on resourcefulness. For example, Sara Blakely, the founder of Spanx, started her business with just $5,000 in savings and no background in fashion. Instead of being discouraged by what she didn’t have, she leveraged her creativity and persistence, proving that innovation often thrives under constraints. Similarly, Airbnb was founded by two designers who rented out air mattresses in their apartment when they couldn’t afford rent. What started as a small idea turned into a billion-dollar company.

Resourcefulness extends beyond business—it applies to everyday life. Think about the single parent who stretches a tight budget to provide for their children, the student who finds creative ways to fund their education, or the community that pools resources to create change. These examples remind us that problem-solving is often more valuable than having unlimited resources.

Developing resourcefulness also builds resilience. When you learn to adapt, you become more confident in your ability to handle uncertainty. Instead of feeling stuck when faced with a challenge, you start asking, “What’s the best way forward?” This shift in thinking is what separates those who make progress from those who remain stagnant.

Resourcefulness isn’t just about financial or career success—it’s a mindset that allows you to navigate any aspect of life. Whether you’re making the most of limited time, stretching a small budget, or finding new ways to learn, the ability to think creatively and act decisively can set you apart.

Ultimately, resourcefulness isn’t about having it all, it’s about maximizing what’s in front of you. The most innovative minds don’t ask, “Can I do this?” They ask, “How can I make this work?” When you embrace this mindset, you’ll find that solutions are always within reach.