general, which allows them to be on the lookout for the next chance encounter. “But a lucky life is not just about creating and noticing chance opportunities. Another important principle revolved around the way in which lucky and unlucky people dealt with the ill fortune in their lives,” Dr. Wiseman says. He presented the following scenario to his sample group: You’re at the bank waiting to be served when a bank robber suddenly bursts in and fires a shot that hits you in the arm. Are you lucky or unlucky?
According to Dr. Wiseman, the “unlucky” responders said it was just their luck that they would be in a bank at the same time it’s getting robbed, only to get shot. The other responders had quite a different attitude. They thought themselves lucky that they only got shot in the arm and not the leg. One respondent even said they could sell their story to the papers and get a little fortune or fame. “The differences … were striking,” says Dr. Wiseman.
DO YOU CONSIDER YOURSELF AN UNLUCKY PERSON? IF SO, TAKE THESE STEPS TO MAKE YOUR OWN LUCK. Recognize and seize opportunities. Don’t let “good luck” pass you by.
Practice cautious optimism—expect the best, prepare for the worst. Have positive expectations for the future.
Get happy. Researchers at the University of Toronto found that people in good moods take in more information, while those in bad moods don’t see as much around them.
Don’t assume bad things are going to happen. Change how you view “bad luck.” There’s probably some good in there, if you look for it.
Practice resiliency. Don’t let bad luck get you down. Don’t fall into a routine. Be open to new people and experiences.
March 2015
Thrive Magazine for Better Living
www.thriveswla.com
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