Mega Millions and How to Make Your Own Luck

Okay, I confess. A few hours ago I bought a lottery ticket. And although my chances of winning the Mega Millions lottery are infinitesimally small, I'm still glad I did it.

But since the luck of the draw is entirely out of my hands and yours, perhaps we'll both benefit from remembering that we can create other opportunities for luck in our lives - opportunities far more likely to benefit us than buying a lottery ticket. I'm brought back to these tips from Rebecca Webber's article in Psychology Today:

1. See serendipity everywhere.

2. Prime yourself for chance.

"Serendipity smiles upon people who have a more relaxed approach to life. They have clarified their long-term goals but don't worry too much about the details. Rather than aiming to become the top cardiac surgeon at the Mayo Clinic, they vow to be a doctor who helps save lives. Once they've pinpointed the ultimate destination, they believe there are many different ways to get there. This requires openness to life's surprising twists and turns as well as cognitive and behavioral flexibility.

An open person heads to the dog park thinking he might encounter a potential new friend, business partner, or romantic interest. A closed person sees only dog owners. "Don't classify people and situations in advance," advises Wiseman. "Wait until you know what's in front of you."

3. Think lucky. 

For example, if you think this way about errands:
"I need to hit the dry cleaner, the bank, and the grocery store. I should be home in time for the game."

Try this approach instead:
"I have to get these things done, but I'm not going to rush because I don't really know what to expect or whom I'll meet. It will be interesting to see how it works out."

If you think this way about business meetings:
"I'm meeting up with this person to do a deal, not thinking of them as a friend or a potential partner."

Try this approach instead:
"I'll accept a meeting with anyone, anytime, because you never know where it might lead—even if it's five years down the road."

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On that note, have a nice and serendipitous weekend!  I'll be enjoying a leisurely run in Central Park this evening.

...and checking my lotto numbers.  :-)