Scarcity becomes useful when it forces precision instead of panic.

Scarcity handled badly produces panic, hurry, and worse decisions than you would make with the same resources calmly. Handled well it produces precision, because you can no longer afford vagueness and must decide what actually matters. The constraint is the same in both cases. What differs is whether it is met with fear or with clarity.

When you notice you are short on time or money, resist the urge to move faster. Slow down and choose more carefully instead. Constraint rewards precision rather than speed.