“Luck is what happens when preparedness meets opportunity”
A quote usually attributed to Roman philosopher Seneca.
I first came across it while listening to old-school self-help teacher Earl Nightingale.
The saying is a re-framing of what we might often think of as “luck”.
It’s like this…
People will often complain that some person or other is luckier than them.
That’s why they’re rich, famous, have a devoted spouse. Or numerous other things the green-eyed monster within likes to bring up.
Anyone else guilty of thinking like that? 🙋‍♂️
But reality, more often than not, is a rags to riches story.
Rarely was it a single moment in time that dumped money, fame etc into someone’s lap.
So, because of this…
I’ve decided to give up.
Give up on finger-pointing. Give up on excuses. Give up on self-pity.
I’ve downloaded and installed new software so I can also give up on my old definition of “luck”.
Now reprogramming my mind with:
“Luck is what happens when preparedness meets opportunity”.
To do this I’m preparing by…
Upgrading my skills. Copywriting. Email. How to be less of an ass around people.
I’m producing marketing materials. Product packages. Refining my business processes.
The idea being, when my “lucky” moments arrive, I can take action quickly.
I’m wiping the dust from my glasses to keep watch for opportunties.
Things like:
If I’m browsing websites… noticing if something doesn’t work quite right. And letting them know. Offering help.
Listening. When a family member, friend or LinkedIn connection mentions how someone they know is having trouble finding customers for their business. Me: “Hey… I can help with that!”
And includes keeping my ear to the rail tracks of my email list. For when I can help.
When I hear that call of opportunity — and have conficence gained through practice — I can make the most of this “luck”.
Your turn:
What preparations are you making to be lucky when opportunity arises?
How are you going to be the luckiest damned person you know?
A couple of great quotes to finish…
From Kevin Davis, founder of a New York City nonprofit. His take is:
“You need to put yourself in a position to have luck.”
And from pro golfer Jerry Barber:
“The harder I practice, the luckier I get.” (That’s my favorite)
When part of your luck-making involves meeting with clients…
They can easily book into your calendar using SavvyCal. It will even collect payments for you.
This is one of my favorite business tools. Check it out here via my affiliate link:
https://a.chrismilham.com/savvycal
To your good luck this year!
Ready to build your email list? Go here…
EmailForTheWin.com
Chris Milham