Make Your Own Luck!

During the month of March, our thoughts can turn to the idea of luck and why some people seem to have all of it. There are those people who seem to easily find jobs they like, who have a fun and supportive group of friends, and for whom life just seems to go their way. But what about the rest of us?

The reality is that a successful life has very little to do with luck. People who have happy lives take the steps that are necessary to create the life that they want for themselves.

Some of our neurodivergent clients think that they are unlucky. They find the concept that it takes work to create a successful life a bit challenging. Our Life Skills Coaches meet with their clients to help them discover that seeking out opportunities generates what appears to be luck. We explain that successful people get out into the world and seek out opportunities that will lead to success.

Here are some of the strategies our Life Skills Coaches offer their clients:

 Goals, Goals, Goals!

One way to achieve the life you want is to set goals. Advance LA uses the S.M.A.R.T. goal method – meaning the goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timely. For example, rather than saying, “I’m going to find a job next week,” we would phrase it as “I will create an effective resume and practice my interviewing skills. Then I will apply for 5 jobs a day that are in my field of interest and for which I have the necessary skill-set. I will follow up I will be on time, and have good hygiene. I will work with a coach who can help me meet my goal of obtaining a job that I enjoy.”

Self-Love

Treat yourself the way you would treat someone you love and cherish. Your idea of your own self worth is what makes you appear lucky. Every day, look in the mirror and practice positive affirmations. And treat yourself kindly by exercising, eating well and practicing good hygiene. You deserve it!

Help Others

The basic fact is that people like to help people who have been good to them. Helping other people achieve their goals can often unlock opportunities for you. This can be accomplished by volunteering with an organization that resonates with you. Not only will you show people that you are a responsible and reliable person, you will likely make friends with people who have similar interests. Win-Win!

Take The First Step

As the saying goes, “Fortune favors the bold” – this means you have to take the first step toward what you want out of life. As our Clinical Director, Dr. Bonnie Auerbach says, “Nothing changes if nothing changes.” You don’t have to climb the whole staircase in one day, you just need to take the first step.

You can have the life you want by making it happen. Let’s leave the luck for leprechans and take the actions that are needed to get that pot of gold!