What’s Luck Got To Do With It?
I once read an article that claimed Bill Gates was “destined for greatness.” The writer stated Gates had the right parents, the right connections, the right bank account, and the right hometown, therefore poor Bill couldn’t help but become a multi-billionaire. Not only did this writer emphasize that geography and genetics gave Bill the silver spoon, he implied, in effect, that those who are not well born, well connected, or well off are practically doomed to live a life of drudgery. Bill was just one of the lucky ones, right?
Is life just a big game of chance? Is it true that some are destined for greatness while others are left to flounder through life? True, geography and genetics are important factors in obtaining success. Being born in the United States, for instance, is something one doesn’t choose, but contributes greatly in our chances of success and happiness. So, perhaps our place of birth could be considered a “lucky break.” On the other hand, many born in this country fail miserably at life. Yes, some are offered more breaks than others, but the secret to success is not the quantity of opportunities, but learning how to respond to them. Or, better yet, how to plan them.
So, what’s luck got to do with it? A closer examination of Bill Gates’ life shows that, while he did indeed receive many opportunities, he took advantage of each and every one of them. He didn’t let his chances go to waste. Bill Gates, and most successful people, realize that each opportunity is like a sunrise — it’s out there for everyone to enjoy, but if you wait too long, you’ll miss it!
There are basically two types of luck: that which we have no control over, and that which we can control. Or design. Using the principles and elements of graphic design, this web site will assist you as you develop an action strategy to design your own luck.
For the purpose of this site, the definition of success is “achieving a desired goal.” You may have many desired goals. Great! I know I do. And these principles can be applied to every aspect of life—finances, family, and faith.
Principles of Design:
- Balance—Building the Best Foundation
- Contrast—Standing Out from the Crowd
- Emphasis—Focusing on the Goal
- Unity—Forging the Right Relationships
- Movement—Getting from Here to There
- Pattern—Formatting the Game Plan
- Rhythm—Repetition, Repetition, Repetition!
Elements of Design:
- Space—Recognizing Your Potential
- Shape—Identifying Your Personality
- Form—Structuring Your Style
- Texture—Releasing Your Creativity
- Intensity—Increasing Your Passion for Excellence
- Color—Monitoring Your Attitude
- Line—Working within Your Boundaries