Luck is a very interesting term. In it contains a bit of uncertainty, the unknown, and chance. When things are going your way, they say, you should play the lottery because you’re lucky or going through a lucky streak.
But is this true? Is luck always a matter of chance or do we have some control over the way things turn out? I suppose you can have either belief. But which one will increase your productivity, success, and happiness in life? Let’s analyze.
If you believe that everything that happens to you is controlled by your luck factor, then why even try to be more productive, successful, or happy? After all, with that belief, it doesn’t matter what you do because you’re either lucky or you aren’t. This gives away your power to some mysterious ‘thing’ beyond your control.
I prefer to believe that what I choose to think and do has an effect on my life. Of course, it also depends on your definition of the word ‘luck.’
In 1980 I listened to my first ‘success conscious’ cassette tape program, The Psychology of Winning, by Denis Waitley. In it Dr. Waitley defined luck as “the intersection of preparation and opportunity.” That one little thought process/belief changed my life forever. This put the responsibility and fate of my life in my hands, not some mysterious unseen force. This gave me personal power!
There are more opportunities every day than any one person could possibly take advantage of. The question you need to ask yourself is, “Am I prepared for opportunity when it shows up?” If not, then commit to preparing until you are ready.
Time will occur whether or not you prepare for the opportunities that will ultimately lead to your success. Why leave your ultimate success, happiness, and fulfillment to chance? The more you prepare, the luckier you get!
Successful people think longer term than unsuccessful people. If it will take you five or ten years or longer to get what you want, begin at once preparing to seize the opportunity when it presents itself, because it will present itself.
Nothing could be more productive than preparing yourself to take advantage of the inevitable opportunities that will come your way. And when they are in alignment with your life purpose, values, and goals, seize them!