Luck is often perceived as random, but it is actually the result of deliberate actions and mindset. By consistently putting yourself in the right environments, staying persistent, building momentum, and maintaining high energy and enthusiasm, you can attract opportunities and create your own luck. Networking, follow-ups, and being memorable also play crucial roles in this process.
Most people think luck is random — either you have it or you don't. However, luck is not just a matter of chance. It is often the result of intentional actions, persistence, and mindset.
Throughout my life, I've been called lucky for various achievements: getting the opportunity to write a song for Nick, selling a company to Warren Buffett's NetJets, partnering with Coca-Cola, and more. But none of these were random luck. I put myself in positions to get those opportunities.
You don't get lucky sitting on the couch watching TV. You have to go out and put yourself in situations where you can attract luck. Then, when luck shows up, you must take advantage of the opportunity.
Proximity creates opportunity. Early in my career, when I was 22 and living on a friend's couch in Burbank, California, I discovered the Beverly Hills Hotel. It was packed with CEOs, actors, moguls, and entrepreneurs. I realized I could come there for lunch, order a salad and a Coke, and sit at the table with all these influential people. That became my office.
I went there four or five days a week, studying people's mannerisms, how they interacted, and how they treated others. Every town has a place where people in your industry hang out — a hotel bar, a sporting event, or similar. Find that place and be there.
Even 20 years later, I still bump into people from those early days. Being a warm face and a warm lead is better than coming in cold.
I often stay late at events or bars when the crowd starts to thin out. That's when meaningful conversations happen. Many sales and opportunities have come from staying late and being present when others leave.
Persistence is key. For example, when shopping my book "Living with the Seal," I was rejected by 14 publishers before a small imprint said yes. People called it luck, but it was persistence — staying in the game until I found a yes.
Once you're in the room, don't sit in the corner. Introduce yourself, ask questions, and be genuinely interested. It can be intimidating, but if there's someone you want to meet, go over and say hello.
The worst that can happen is nothing. But if you leave early, nothing will happen for sure.
When opportunities arise, even if you don't have all the skills or answers, say yes and figure it out. Early in my career, I pitched a music commercial to Foot Locker and was asked if I could get celebrities for their campaign. We didn't have that capability at the time, but we said yes and then made it happen.
Saying yes builds momentum, and momentum attracts luck.
People are drawn to stories and momentum. When I ran my first 100-mile race in 2006, people were curious and interested. I was doing things differently — cold plunges, running ultra-marathons, eating fruit until noon — and that curiosity attracted opportunities.
You don't have to be wacky, but the more interesting experiences you have, the more you have to offer, and the more people are drawn to you.
I have always been consistent with reaching out to people. Early on, I wrote handwritten letters — about 10 a day, totaling around 3,000 a year. Now, I send quick videos or messages to stay connected.
This keeps me top of mind so when opportunities arise, people think of me first.
I also invite people to events to ensure no empty seats and maintain strong relationships.
Energy and enthusiasm are crucial in meetings. I never sit while waiting for a meeting; I stand, stretch, and prepare to greet people energetically.
I observe the room and find common ground, like noticing running medals or watches, to start conversations naturally.
Standing out is important. In my 20s, I wrote custom rap songs for big meetings to make an impression. Follow up with unique touches like gifts or personalized emails to make your meetings pop.
I never say "I'm so unlucky." I always believe there's a Hail Mary — a chance to get lucky. I keep my eyes open for opportunities and pounce on them.
Even if you're not the lead, being part of the group moving in the right direction is valuable.
When I appear on podcasts or collaborate, I send gifts or notes to show appreciation. This "freaks the freaker" — it surprises and makes you memorable.
When things are going your way, double down. If you get a sale or opportunity, push harder and move faster.
Momentum comes in waves. When creativity or productivity flows, capitalize on it fully.
Luck is not random. It is part of a strategy involving putting yourself in the right situations, staying persistent, building momentum, maintaining energy, and being memorable.
Sometimes luck happens miraculously, like winning the lottery, but even lottery winners had to buy a ticket to have a chance.
In summary, luck is about being in the game, planting seeds through consistent effort, and being ready to seize opportunities when they arise.
By following these steps, you can become suspiciously lucky and create your own luck in life and business.
