Luck is often perceived as mere chance, but it is far more complex than it seems. It manifests in moments where everything appears to align perfectly. Yet, this apparent luck largely depends on our preparation and mindset.
In working with executives, I have noticed that many factors unpredictably impact their decisions. It involves recognizing that certain circumstances are beyond our control. However, being prepared for the unexpected and developing a mental resilience can turn luck into a real advantage. It is by combining data and intuition that we make the best decisions.
Do you feel lucky?
Hello, my name is Véronique, I am 36 years old and I am an Executive Coach. Passionate about personal and professional development, I support leaders and teams in realizing their full potential. My tailored approach combines listening, expertise, and innovative tools to foster growth and performance. Together, let’s build your success!
What is luck?
Luck is often perceived as an unpredictable event that can change the course of our lives. However, the perception of luck goes well beyond mere chance. In reality, many aspects of what we consider luck are influenced by our actions, preparation, and mindset. More than thirty years ago, during a job interview, I was asked: “Tell me about a time when you were lucky.” This question profoundly marked me and shaped my understanding of luck.
Over the years, I have found that what we call luck is often the result of factors we have some control over. Working with business leaders, it is clear that many important decisions depend on external variables, beyond the direct control of CEOs. However, by integrating suitable strategies, it is possible to maximize opportunities and create one’s own luck.
The relationship between luck and preparation
To capitalize on luck, two elements are essential: preparation and mental condition. Without preparation, the opportunities that arise may go unnoticed or not be effectively leveraged. Preparation does not just involve anticipating what we think will be the future, but also considering all possibilities that may arise. Gideon Malherbe emphasizes this aspect in his talk on Scenario Planning, highlighting the importance of preparing for various scenarios to better react to the unexpected.
As an Executive Coach, I encourage my clients to develop a holistic vision of their professional environment. This involves not only analyzing available data but also understanding emerging trends and potential market disruptions. Such a proactive approach allows transforming seemingly random situations into strategic opportunities.
The importance of mental condition
Being able to see, analyze, adjust, and execute is just as crucial as preparation. The mental condition refers to the resilience and flexibility needed to navigate changing contexts. When an unexpected situation, or what some might call a stroke of luck, arises, it is imperative to react swiftly and effectively.
Imagine that your workload suddenly doubles. Adequate mental preparation will not only allow you to manage the increased load but also to rethink your priorities and maintain strategic focus. This requires regular practice of skills such as quick analysis, decision-making under pressure, and adaptability.
Data-driven and intuitive decisions
In the business world, many decisions are made based on tangible data, while others rely on personal intuition. The best decisions often lie at the intersection of these two approaches. By combining rigorous analysis with an intuitive understanding of contextual dynamics, it is possible to make more balanced and effective decisions.
Throughout my journey as an Executive Coach, I have observed that the most successful leaders know when to rely on data and when to follow their instincts. This dual competency allows not only to react to changes but also to anticipate and influence them proactively.
Leveraging luck through preparation and resilience
Leveraging luck does not mean relying solely on fortuitous events. It involves creating an environment where luck can operate through meticulous preparation and psychological resilience. This entails developing skills such as stress management, cognitive flexibility, and the ability to learn from every experience, whether positive or negative.
A concrete example is that of the CEOs I have accompanied in their professional journeys. Several have faced unexpected situations that, thanks to their preparation and mindset, transformed into opportunities for growth and innovation. These experiences show that luck is often the result of multiple small decisions and actions aligned toward a common goal.
The practice of flexibility and adaptability
The ability to see, analyze, adjust, and execute largely depends on the regular practice of flexibility and adaptability. These skills can be developed through simulation exercises, personal development workshops, and personalized coaching. By investing in these aspects, leaders can not only better manage the unexpected but also transform challenges into success levers.
For example, during an economic crisis, a well-prepared and mentally resilient CEO will quickly reorganize resources, identify new market opportunities, and maintain team motivation despite uncertainties. This ability to adapt is essential for navigating a constantly evolving business environment.
The influence of luck on performance and growth
When well-managed, luck can be a powerful driver of performance and growth. By integrating preparation and mental condition into their strategy, leaders can take advantage of opportunities that present themselves and convert them into lasting success. This proactive approach does not merely react to circumstances but seeks to influence them in ways that create competitive advantages.
An inspiring journey is that of Déric Lemoine, an expert in coaching and management, whose path demonstrates how rigorous preparation and mental resilience can turn opportunities into remarkable successes. His experience perfectly illustrates how luck, when supported by hard work and a positive mindset, can open unexpected doors.
How to create your own luck?
Creating your own luck rests on several fundamental pillars: anticipation, proactivity, and resilience. Anticipating future needs and emerging trends allows for preparing the right tools and strategies to seize opportunities as they arise. Proactivity involves taking initiatives before circumstances compel us to, which increases the chances of success.
Moreover, resilience plays a crucial role in how we respond to challenges and failures. Each experience, whether positive or negative, offers valuable lessons that contribute to our personal and professional development. By cultivating a positive attitude and continually learning from our experiences, we can create an environment conducive to luck.
The role of intuition in decision-making
Intuition is often underestimated in the decision-making process; however, it can be a major asset when combined with objective data. Intuition allows us to recognize subtle patterns and opportunities that are not immediately evident through purely rational analysis. By developing our intuition, we can make more balanced and suitable decisions for complex situations.
To refine this skill, it is essential to remain connected to one’s feelings while maintaining an analytical approach. This can be achieved through meditation, personal reflection, and constant feedback from professional environments. By balancing intuition and analysis, we can navigate with more confidence in uncertain environments.
Case studies: when luck is present
Let’s illustrate how luck can manifest in the professional world through concrete examples. Take the case of a CEO who, during an economic crisis, decides to redirect his company toward new markets by observing an emerging trend. This decision, motivated by thorough analysis and well-calibrated intuition, not only saves the company but also positions it as a leader in this new sector.
Another example is that of a leader who uses innovative tools to strengthen his team’s cohesion, thus creating a work environment conducive to creativity and innovation. These initiatives demonstrate that luck, when supported by deliberate actions and adequate preparation, can lead to exceptional results.
Implicit conclusion: adopt a proactive approach
In summary, luck is not a fatality but the result of a combination of preparation, resilience, and intuition. By cultivating these qualities, you can create an environment where luck itself becomes an ally in your professional and personal journey. Investing in your development and adopting a proactive attitude will not only enable you to recognize opportunities when they arise but also to transform them into lasting success.
