Ever feel like some people just seem to have all the luck? While luck might seem random, author and psychologist Richard Wiseman argues otherwise. In his book The Luck Factor, Wiseman reveals that luck isn’t entirely left to chance—it can often be influenced by our actions and mindset. Over a decade-long study of 400 individuals who identified as either “lucky” or “unlucky,” Wiseman uncovered key traits that set lucky people apart. Here are the four characteristics they share and how you can cultivate them in your own life.
They Embrace Resilience
Lucky people don’t let setbacks define them. Instead, they bounce back quickly, focusing on how things could have been worse. This ability to reframe bad situations keeps their spirits high and their outlook positive. According to Wiseman, this resilience helps maintain their confidence, ensuring they’re ready for the next opportunity.
They Jump at Opportunities
Rather than sticking to rigid routines, lucky individuals stay open to new possibilities. Whether it’s talking to someone new, trying a different route home, or exploring a fresh destination, they embrace flexibility. Wiseman notes that these random or novel experiences often pave the way for unexpected opportunities.
They Trust Their Intuition
Lucky people rely on their gut feelings when making decisions. Wiseman’s research shows that unlucky individuals often struggle with anxiety, which leads to hesitation. In contrast, lucky people trust their instincts, enabling them to act decisively and uncover opportunities others might miss.
They See the Silver Lining
Optimism is a defining trait of lucky people. Even in difficult situations, they manage to find a bright side. In one of Wiseman’s experiments, participants were asked to imagine being shot in the arm during a robbery. While unlucky individuals focused on the negative, lucky participants highlighted how the situation could have been worse and even joked about selling their story.
Can You Boost Your Luck?
Wiseman’s research suggests that luck isn’t entirely out of your hands. By adopting these traits—resilience, openness, intuition, and optimism—you can create more opportunities for good fortune in your life. After all, sometimes, making your own luck is the best way to ensure it’s on your side.
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