As we step into March—a month known for St. Patrick’s Day and good luck—it’s a great time to explore how luck plays a role in leadership and business success. “Does luck really play a role in leadership” U may ask? Well let’s dive in…
While we know that hard work, strategy, and resilience are key drivers of achievement, luck often acts as the silent, unseen friend that opens doors and creates opportunities.
Many successful leaders in history acknowledge and cite that luck has played a key role in their journey. Whether it’s being in the right place at the right time, meeting a crucial mentor or partner, or catching a trend just as it takes off, luck can be a game-changer. However, great leaders aren’t naive enough to simply wait for luck to strike—they strategically position themselves to take advantage of fortunate moments when they arise. And they keep their eyes WIDE open.
Wondering how U can jump on the luck train? Here are a few key ideas on how leaders make their OWN luck in business:
1. Stay Open to Opportunities
Luck often comes disguised as unexpected chances. Sometimes U have to do a little digging and uncovering to find it. The most successful leaders know that they must remain adaptable and open to new ideas, partnerships, and innovations. Luck is often just around the corner.
2. Put Yourself in the Right Places Networking, ongoing and consistent learning, and showing up for key moments increase the odds of encountering lucky breaks. Like they say, “U can’t win if U don’t play.” So position yourself accordingly!
3. Take Calculated Risks Sometimes, MOST times, luck favors those who are willing to step outside their comfort zones. (And at U & Improved U know we are BIG advocates of busting through comfort zones!) Leaders who embrace uncertainty and take bold and thoughtful risks are more likely to stumble upon success. Funny how that works. As I always say, “Risking nothing is risking everything!”
4. Recognize and Seize the Moment
When luck presents an opportunity, decisive action is key. Will U recognize it when it comes? And more importantly, will U act upon it?Leaders who recognize lucky moments and take swift action can turn chance into long-term success.
5. Create Luck for Others
By fostering a culture of collaboration, mentorship, and generosity, leaders spark opportunities for others—often bringing good fortune back to themselves in unexpected ways. Another favorite quote of mine, “Fill other people’s pockets with gold, and yours will be taken care of.” It’s simply the way the Universe works!
While luck is never guaranteed, smart leadership involves maximizing its potential. This March, take a moment to reflect on the lucky breaks that have shaped your journey and how U can cultivate more opportunities for success with the tips I shared above. As the saying goes, “The harder U work, the luckier U get.”
Here’s to making your own luck in leadership this season! And remember, if U want to fast-track your leadership and create more space for luck to find U, your best move always involves betting on U, and we’re here for U on every step of your leadership journey!
With love & gratitude,
Jodi