Research suggests that luck favors those who actively engage with the world around them. By increasing our 'collisions' with new people, ideas, and opportunities, we can open doors to positive outcomes and unexpected opportunities.
- Chance favors those who keep moving and meeting new people
- Deliberate social activities increase opportunities for positive outcomes
- Saying yes more often and varying routines can improve your luck
What happened
Professor Sean Johnson recently emphasized a key idea from the book Chase, Chance, and Creativity by James Austin: the more we put ourselves in motion and expose ourselves to new experiences, the more luck we create. This concept, known as the Kettering Principle, states that 'chance favors those in motion,' meaning active engagement with people and ideas raises the likelihood of fortunate events.
Supporting this, psychologist Richard Wiseman conducted a decade-long study showing that people who describe themselves as lucky tend to talk to strangers more often and regularly change their routines. This behavior increases their chances to experience positive outcomes by meeting new people and seizing unexpected opportunities.
Why it feels good
Actively seeking interaction and novelty taps into our natural curiosity and desire for connection. While it can feel uncomfortable to step outside familiar routines or meet strangers, these 'collisions' can lead to friendships, collaborations, or new experiences that enrich our lives in surprising ways.
The encouragement to say yes more and engage socially also counters inertia and isolation, particularly in times when people may feel stuck or sedentary. By pushing ourselves to connect, we not only create chances for luck but also foster a sense of vitality and engagement with the world around us.
What to enjoy or watch next
For a lighthearted take on this principle, check out the 2008 film Yes Man starring Jim Carrey. The movie humorously explores how saying yes to new experiences can open up unexpected opportunities and joy, highlighting the power of movement and social openness in creating luck.
To put these ideas into practice, consider attending local events, starting networking activities, or simply striking up conversations with people you don’t yet know. Hosting small gatherings or sharing your ideas on social platforms can also increase your chances of positive connections and serendipitous moments.