The authenticity of luck has been heavily debated for ages – people have always held different views. For some, luck is simply a coincidence of events, while others see it as a calculated happenstance.
Luck, by nature, is unpredictable. The vast majority of people see it as a series of events that occur by chance, and without a person’s involvement. However, there’s some proof that people who believe in luck and actively look forward to being lucky tend to find luck.
The idea of predicting or controlling luck is a complex and often contentious topic. Nevertheless, studies have shown that people can increase their chances of being lucky. Can luck be predicted or controlled? Read on to find out.
What Is Luck?
The definition of luck varies with different people. Some see luck as a random occurrence that happens on the day the universe shines bright on a person. They consider luck to be mere fantasy or coincidence. There are also people who believe that humans play an active role in experiencing luck.
Luck is an abstract concept that cannot be fully defined or explained. However, by common definition, luck means a series of fortunate events that occur in favour of a person.
Perspectives About Luck
Although there are no empirical theories about luck, some opinions or beliefs support the concept that it is possible to predict and control luck. Some concepts include:
- Probability and statistics
- Trends
- Psychology
- Gut feeling
Probability and Statistics
The concept of luck is commonly viewed as “random” or “probabilistic.” Those who believe luck to be random never look for it. On the flipside, people who view luck as probabilistic always seek out ways to improve their chances of being lucky.
The theory of probability supports the idea that it is possible to achieve certain outcomes by making calculated moves. For example, games like poker and blackjack require a level of skill to win, and are not solely chance-based. Veteran players often use their knowledge of the odds to make strategic decisions in their favour. Some players have also mastered the art of playing casino promotions like online pokies no deposit bonus to influence their chances of winning.
Limitations of Predicting Luck
Probability also plays a role in industries such as weather forecasting, where meteorologists can predict weather conditions based on historical data and statistics. The concept of probability also applies to financial investment. By proper analysis of the market, investors make calculated risks that sometimes result in good fortune.
These examples have led some to believe that luck can in fact be predicted. While these applications are true, this school of thought does not take into account variable factors. For example, no matter how skilled people are in blackjack or poker, they cannot predict or control the kind of cards they’re dealt. Also, investors cannot control the changing dynamics of the economy. These variables play a crucial role in the outcome of events.
Trends
Some proponents believe that it is possible to predict luck by recognising and understanding trends. In sports, for example, analysing a team’s winning streak, head-to-head records, and performance in different circumstances can help predict their chances of winning. However, this theory is not totally accurate.
Predicting the outcome of a game isn’t predicting luck. It is forecasting the outcomes of the game based on available data and observed trends. For instance, a football team may be accustomed to winning under certain weather conditions. An analyst will likely predict a win in future matches under such conditions not due to luck but because of a pattern identified in the team’s previous performances.
Psychology
It is believed that human psychology plays a key role in achieving luck. This means you can increase your chances of being lucky by adopting certain patterns and behaviours. According to this perspective about luck, people who have a positive mindset about life and are open to new experiences are more likely to find themselves in lucky situations. They tend to interpret the events of their lives differently therefore they are more optimistic about life.
| Factors Influencing Luck | Description | Examples |
| Proactivity and persistence | Actively seeking opportunities and persisting amplifies favourable outcomes | Sending job applications regularly, following up on leads, or continuous learning |
| Mindset and positive attitude | Maintaining a positive outlook and belief in influencing outcomes attracts luck | Practising gratitude, visualising success, or adopting an optimistic attitude |
| Serendipity and chance events | Luck involves unexpected encounters or events | Running into a former colleague, receiving an unsolicited job offer, or discovering an investment opportunity by chance |
| Self-efficacy and confidence | Belief in one’s capabilities increases seizing opportunities | Setting and achieving goals, presenting confidently, or taking leadership roles |
Gut Feeling
Some people believe in the ability to sense or predict luck based on gut feeling. Although science acknowledges the concept of intuition, the mechanism and accuracy remain up for debate. Studies show that intuition comes from the human brain’s ability to process subconscious hints based on past experiences, emotional responses, and habits. In other words, what feels like a gut feeling may actually be the rapid, unconscious processing of events by the human brain.
Following your intuition can sometimes lead to correct predictions and judgement of random events. These scenarios have led some to believe they can perceive their luck. However, there are no scientific studies to show that people can predict luck by gut feeling.
Conclusion
Luck is a real concept but no scientific theory proves that it can be predicted or controlled. Not even the most “lucky” individuals are able to explain how they get lucky. They simply just find luck.
While different opinions about luck persist, the consensus belief is that luck happens by chance. You cannot work your way into being lucky, in other words.
