Making your own luck: to some, it’s a throwaway cliché. But in the world of business, where so many things can seem to be outside of your control, there are very real ways to improve your odds of making it big. What follows are some of the threads that stitch all successful business stories together; tips that you can apply to your own professional life.
What goes around comes around
People who only take and never give back will find their business prospects are hindered. Business is inherently transactional and because relationships are such a big part of the game, your odds of success are improved if you adopt an attitude of giving before receiving.
Work hard
There are things you can control and things you can’t, but the number one predictor of success -outside of IQ - is conscientiousness. You can control how much time and effort you put into your work. In fact, studies show that people who work just 10% more than the rest can expect to earn a whopping 40% more.
Adopt a practical approach to getting what you want
What does success look like to you? Once you know that, you need to put practical steps in place to make your own luck. Often we focus on a goal that’s enormous in size, and then get frustrated when we don’t immediately get there. The trick is to break down the goal into digestible chunks, and to take a step forward every day.
Be passionate about what you do
Be practical, but be passionate too - that’s a powerful motivator. If you’re passionate, work never has to be a grind. And with passion comes positivity, a trait that radiates outwards. People will notice and gravitate towards you.
Be aware of self-fulfilling prophecies
There’s evidence that shows people who think they are inherently unlucky let this mindset cloud their outlook and, consequently, put in less work. In essence, they create a self-fulfilling prophecy, one fueled by their down at heel mindset. Believing you’re lucky, however, has the completely opposite effect. Yes, it’s not possible to reap good fortune all the time, but staying positive has tremendous benefits to both your mental wellbeing and your business fortunes.
At the same time, be realistic
Setbacks happen. The sweet nectar of success wouldn’t taste as good if setbacks didn’t happen. Remember to keep things in perspective and to keep an eye on the bigger picture. You’ve got a lot to be grateful for already - and if you think you don’t, you’re not being mindful enough of the situation.
Face conflict with your head held high
Feeling under pressure? In a difficult business-related bind? Our body’s natural response is to protect us by making us smaller. But in actual fact, studies show that one of the best ways to navigate a difficult situation is to make yourself physically bigger. Make yourself feel bigger and stronger and, in the process, you’ll start to feel like someone more capable of getting through trying times and making your own luck.