Career - Are You Lucky?

What's luck got to do with it?

That's a question one client asked me this week while discussing his career so-far.

Here’s my answer.

Luck, of course, dictates where we are born, our gender, our parents and siblings, our initial socio-economic class, and the genes that influence our health, energy, and intellect.

Beyond these significant factors, the lives and careers of successful leaders I coach are shaped by four considerations.

Choices.

For better and worse, choices have consequences. Saying “Yes" to opportunities, assignments and experiences that align with our greatest interests and strengths increases probability of achievement. Saying “No” to things that divert our attention from our strengths and talent accelerates our advancement.

People.

The people we live, work, and play with are the biggest predictor of our life and career experience. Finding and working for a great boss is often more important than finding a great job. Be a great boss. Hang-out with people who share your beliefs and inspire you to step-up your game.

Preparation.

Luck, it is said, happens when preparation meets opportunity. There are no shortcuts to success in the biggest jobs and competitions. Pay your dues. Put in the time. Practice and prepare the way you expect to perform. Be quick, and don't hurry!

Beliefs.

Luck happens for those who believe they are lucky. Luck happens for those who have courage to act on their beliefs.

How lucky are you?

"Luck is only important in so far as getting the chance - after that, you've got to have talent and know how to use it." ~ Frank Sinatra

"Miracles happen for those who believe in them." ~ Paul Coelho