Luck often feels like an unpredictable force, something that happens to us rather than something we actively create. But what if you could influence your luck? What if you could turn life’s uncertainties into opportunities? Pushing your luck for the better isn’t about reckless gambling or blind hope—it’s about understanding how to increase the odds in your favor through action, mindset, and preparation. Here’s how to harness the power of “better luck.”

1. Redefine Luck

Luck isn’t magic—it’s the intersection of preparation, opportunity, and action. People who seem “lucky” are often those who’ve worked hard to create circumstances that maximize their chances of success. Start by reframing luck as something you can actively influence.

• Action Step: Recognize that luck is part effort, part timing, and part attitude. When you understand this, you can focus on what’s within your control and let go of what isn’t.

2. Say Yes to Opportunities

One of the biggest barriers to luck is hesitancy. Opportunities often disguise themselves as risks, challenges, or moments of discomfort. The more you say “yes” to new experiences and possibilities, the more chances you have to create positive outcomes.

• Action Step: Get in the habit of saying “yes” to opportunities, even when they feel uncertain. Whether it’s a chance to collaborate, a new project, or a social event, stepping outside your comfort zone can open doors you didn’t know existed.

3. Take Calculated Risks

Pushing your luck doesn’t mean taking wild gambles. It means taking thoughtful risks that align with your goals. This involves weighing the potential rewards against the risks and deciding when the payoff is worth the leap.

• Action Step: Identify one area in your life where you’re playing too safe. Challenge yourself to take a calculated risk in that area, whether it’s asking for a raise, pitching an idea, or starting a side hustle.

4. Cultivate a Growth Mindset

Believing in your ability to learn and adapt is essential for creating better luck. A growth mindset allows you to see setbacks not as failures but as opportunities to grow. The more you’re willing to learn from challenges, the more “lucky” opportunities you’ll recognize and seize.

• Action Step: When faced with a setback, ask yourself: What can I learn from this? How can I use this experience to move forward? Embrace failure as part of the process.

5. Build and Leverage Relationships

Luck often comes from connections. Whether it’s a recommendation for a job, a chance introduction to a mentor, or insider knowledge about an opportunity, the people you know can significantly influence your luck.

• Action Step: Focus on building genuine relationships. Attend networking events, reconnect with old friends, and always offer help where you can. The more you give, the more you’ll find luck coming back to you.

6. Be Prepared for When Luck Strikes

Opportunities are useless if you’re not ready to act on them. Preparation is the foundation of good luck. Whether it’s honing your skills, improving your knowledge, or building your resources, being ready when an opportunity arises can make all the difference.

• Action Step: Identify a skill or area of knowledge that could help you achieve your goals. Dedicate time to mastering it so that you’re ready when the moment comes.

7. Put Yourself in the Right Environments

Luck often hinges on being in the right place at the right time. You can increase your chances of this by intentionally placing yourself in environments where opportunities are likely to arise.

• Action Step: Seek out communities, events, or spaces that align with your goals. For example, if you’re a writer, join a local writing group. If you’re an entrepreneur, attend startup events. Surround yourself with opportunities.

8. Actively Seek Out Opportunities

Luck doesn’t always come knocking—you have to go looking for it. Being proactive about finding opportunities, instead of waiting for them to appear, is a hallmark of people who seem “lucky.”

• Action Step: Make a habit of seeking out new opportunities every week. This could be applying for a new job, pitching your work, or exploring new hobbies.

9. Stay Positive and Persistent

A positive attitude attracts luck. Optimism helps you see potential where others see obstacles. Persistence ensures you keep going even when things don’t work out right away. Together, they make you resilient in the face of uncertainty.

• Action Step: Practice gratitude daily to maintain a positive outlook. When you encounter rejection, remind yourself that it’s just one step in the journey, not the end of the road.

10. Embrace Serendipity

While pushing your luck is about taking control, there’s also value in being open to randomness. Some of the best opportunities arise from unplanned, serendipitous encounters. The key is to remain open and adaptable.

• Action Step: Make time for unstructured exploration—whether it’s wandering through a bookstore, taking a different route home, or chatting with a stranger. You never know where it might lead.

Conclusion: Luck Favors the Bold

Luck isn’t just something that happens—it’s something you create. By embracing opportunities, taking calculated risks, and preparing for success, you can push your luck for the better. It’s not about superstition or chance; it’s about action, mindset, and being ready when opportunity knocks.

So go ahead—push your luck. The odds are more in your favor than you think.