About Luck

Throughout my life, I have experienced both extreme luck and extreme misfortune. I often tried to attribute my successes to hard work, while attributing failures to external circumstances. This has led me to ponder: What if life is merely a series of fortunate or unfortunate events? There’s a popular saying that the harder you work, the luckier you get. However, I argue that the harder you work, the more exposure you gain, which in turn might increase your chances of encountering luck as time progresses.

But what exactly is luck? Luck can be defined as “success apparently brought by chance rather than through one’s own actions.” This definition raises the question: Isn’t life inherently a series of luck-based outcomes?

Many entrepreneurs, reflecting on their success, might believe that they could replicate their achievements under any circumstances. They may think that their success is solely a result of their efforts and that they could succeed over and over again regardless of the situation. However, this perspective might not fully capture the truth.

Consider the possibility that their success could also be attributed to their specific circumstances at the time. For example, someone might have developed one of the first mobile apps addressing a particular issue when mobile apps were not yet widespread. This timing can be seen as a stroke of luck, catching the wave of innovation at just the right moment.

On the other hand, there are individuals who are intelligent and hardworking yet seem unable to achieve what they arguably deserve. While some might argue these individuals are doing something wrong, it’s also possible that they face obstacles beyond their control. Being born in a wrong place, at the wrong time, or being surrounded by hard circumstances. This discrepancy highlights the complex interplay between effort, circumstances, and what we commonly refer to as luck.

How to be more lucky:

1. Gain More Exposure

Increasing your exposure involves putting yourself in new situations and meeting new people. By broadening your network and experiences, you increase the chances of encountering opportunities that may seem like luck. For instance, attending industry conferences, participating in community events, or engaging in online forums relevant to your interests can lead to unexpected connections and opportunities. The idea is to be visible in the spaces where opportunities in your area of interest or expertise might arise.

2. Work a Little Harder

While luck might seem to come by chance, often it’s the result of hard work and preparation. Working a little harder can mean improving your skills, dedicating more time to your goals, or simply being more thorough in your endeavors. When you’re well-prepared and skilled, you’re more likely to take advantage of opportunities that come your way, making your actions seem ‘luckier’ than they are. This might involve staying late to finish a project, taking courses to improve your knowledge, or just putting in the extra effort to ensure your work stands out.

3. Go Out Of Your Comfort Zone

Stepping out of your comfort zone is crucial for growth and can significantly increase your ‘luck.’ By challenging yourself to try new things, you not only gain new skills but also expose yourself to opportunities you wouldn’t have encountered otherwise. Whether it’s taking on a project that scares you, speaking at an event, or even traveling somewhere new, these experiences can lead to serendipitous opportunities. The discomfort you feel when trying something new is often a sign of growth.

4. Position Yourself In Circumstances Where Winning is More Predictable

This involves strategic planning and positioning to increase the odds of success in your favor. It means choosing environments where your strengths are highlighted and your weaknesses are minimized. For example, if you’re a great public speaker, seek out opportunities to present or lead workshops. If you excel in writing, contribute articles to publications in your field. By positioning yourself in situations where you’re more likely to succeed, you not only boost your confidence but also attract more ‘luck’ by showcasing your capabilities.

The concept of luck, therefore, is not just a simple matter of chance but a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by timing, exposure, and individual effort. It suggests that while hard work is crucial, being in the right place at the right time can also play a significant role in determining success or failure rather than anyone’s attributes. This understanding can help us appreciate the nuances of success and encourage a more empathetic view towards those who face challenges despite their best efforts.