How Do Some People Get So Lucky?
Do you see yourself as naturally lucky or unlucky? And is there even such a thing?
Because it’s March, I’ve been thinking a lot about luck… I know most of us have heard things like:
“Some people have all the luck.”
– or –
“I never win anything. I’m just not lucky!”
Luck, we’re told, isn’t up to us. You either have it or you don’t.
But I believe we can cultivate luck.
Yes, some things are out of our control, but a great deal IS within our control. For instance, we CAN notice and act on chance opportunities that others might miss.
And these chance opportunities seem to arise more in some seasons than others.
In spring, as plant growth shifts from deep and inward to vibrant and outward, nature gives us a clear visual of the new energy surrounding us.
Over the years, I’ve marveled at how this energetic shift aligns with my career. All my new jobs (including launching Flourish Careers) have come in the springtime!
Sure, you could ignore these shifts and carry on. You could continue doing the same things in the spring that you did in the winter—OR you could learn to take advantage of this powerful energy shift.
With a bit of preparation, intention, and openness, you can start attracting the positive energy of spring. (It’s time to call on the mystical power of the lucky four-leaf clovers! 🍀)
And since ancient wisdom teaches us there’s no better time to cultivate luck than in the early days of spring, let’s begin today.
5 Ways To Cultivate Career Luck
Luck is not simply the result of being in the right place at the right time. It’s the result of specific actions, intentions, and OPENNESS—you can cultivate luck, too, once you know how.
1. Venture outside your comfort zone.
Try taking on new challenges, pursuing unfamiliar interests, or even changing careers. Any experience that takes you outside your comfort zone expands your horizons, increasing the likelihood of serendipitous encounters and discoveries.
2. Stay open to serendipitous networking.
Genuinely get to know people, their perspectives, and their stories. Strong work relationships will open you up to a world of possibilities. Try noticing chance encounters and listening to your gut feelings about the people who come into your life.
3. Embrace change as “possibility.”
Luck favors those who go with the flow. If you’ve resisted change, try viewing it as an opportunity for growth and innovation. For example, you can see the changes coming from AI as a threat—or as an opportunity.
4. Remain flexible and curious.
Lucky people don’t fall apart when initial plans don’t work out. Instead, they pivot with an excitement for learning something new. (Scroll down for a blog post all about lifelong curiosity.)
5. Approach your work with enthusiasm and seek excellence.
When you commit yourself to being exceptional at what you do, luck will naturally follow. I like to call these “effortless opportunities.”
FRESH PICK
Forever In Bloom: How To Cultivate Lifelong Curiosity
In my career, I’ve received plenty of advice. Still, one piece of guidance has made a more lasting impact than any of the others: “Always remain open and teachable.” My newest blog post is about embracing the power of curiosity and openness so you remain forever in bloom.
BEYOND THE GARDEN
Mastering The Job Interview: Insider Tips + Strategies For Standing Out
In the book The Serendipity Mindset, the author explains that “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity,” and that has always stuck with me. That’s why I’m partnering with Flexjobs for a session on interview prep. Using these tips and strategies, you can cultivate luck and stand out from the competition.
The Gardener’s Glove
A Monthly Newsletter
Want more career wisdom? Check out these podcast episodes/blog posts!
+How to Cultivate Luck in Your Career
+Passion Projects: Pursuing Your Side Gig
+LinkedIn Luck: Turning Preparation into Opportunity
For more insider stories, quick tips, and #CareerTalk, I invite you to connect with me on Instagram @flourish.careers.
