I grew up in an era of pretty severe poverty. My parents weathered the Great Depression, and money was always a very big concern. I was weaned on a shortage mentality and placed in foster homes largely because there simply wasn't enough money to take care of the most basic of needs.

In this quote, Wayne Dyer reflects on his difficult childhood, marked by severe poverty and the impact of the Great Depression on his family. Growing up in an environment where money was always a primary concern, Dyer experienced firsthand the struggles of financial instability. The phrase "weaned on a shortage mentality" suggests that he was raised with the mindset of scarcity, constantly worried about not having enough, which likely shaped his worldview and approach to life.

Dyer also touches on the emotional and social impact of poverty, noting that he was placed in foster homes due to his family’s inability to meet even the most basic needs. This illustrates how deep the effects of poverty can go, affecting not only one’s material well-being but also their sense of security and belonging. The instability in his early years likely had a profound influence on his later teachings, as he became known for advocating the power of self-reliance and personal growth.

The origin of the quote lies in Dyer’s personal story, which he later shared in his books and lectures. As a renowned author and motivational speaker, Dyer used his own experiences with poverty and hardship to inspire others to transcend their circumstances. His insights on overcoming adversity and shifting one’s mindset from scarcity to abundance became central themes in his work.

Ultimately, the quote highlights the deep scars that poverty can leave, but also how such experiences can shape one’s character and mindset. Dyer’s ability to rise above his early struggles and transform his outlook on life is a testament to the power of resilience and the capacity to shift from a scarcity mentality to one of abundance and possibility.