Neuroscientists explain how people can become luckier

Can you learn to be lucky? Modern research in neuroscience and psychology shows that you can. Scientists believe that luck is not only a random chain of circumstances, but also the brain’s ability to notice opportunities, quickly adapt to changes and keep going after setbacks. These skills can be developed through simple daily habits.

1. Shift your attention from problems to opportunities

The human brain is wired to notice threats first. However, this tendency can be changed.

Whenever you face a difficulty, ask yourself three questions:

- What opportunities does this situation conceal?

- What can it teach me?

- How can I use it to my advantage?

This approach helps you notice useful ideas, promising projects and connections that might previously have gone unnoticed.

2. Use the “learned optimism” method

American psychologist Martin Seligman suggests a simple algorithm that helps people recover from setbacks more quickly.

If something does not go according to plan:

1. Check whether there is real evidence to support your negative thoughts.

2. Find an alternative explanation for what happened.

3. Assess how likely the worst-case scenario is and what you will do if it does happen.

4. Make a concrete plan for your next steps.

This approach reduces anxiety and helps you return to solving the problem more quickly.

3. Treat mistakes as training

People who are considered lucky do not see setbacks as the end of the road. After each mistake, they analyse:

- what happened;

- why it happened;

- what can be done differently next time.

Each attempt makes a person more experienced and increases the likelihood of success in the future.

4. Break out of your usual routine

New experiences encourage the brain to search more actively for unconventional solutions.

Try to do the following at least several times a week:

- change your usual route;

- visit new places;

- read books outside your professional field;

- learn new skills;

- interact with people from other areas of work.

The more new impressions the brain receives, the greater the chance of noticing an unexpected opportunity.

5. Expand your social circle

Research shows that many career and life opportunities arise through chance encounters.

To make this happen, it is enough to:

- start conversations first more often;

- smile and maintain eye contact;

- attend events related to your interests;

- keep in touch with new acquaintances.

Even one valuable contact can change the course of your career or open up new prospects.

6. Help others without expecting a benefit

Sincere help builds trust and creates a reputation as someone others will want to turn to again.

There are different ways to help:

- share useful information;

- offer advice;

- introduce people to one another;

- support a colleague or friend.

Over time, these social connections often become a source of new opportunities.

7. Take care of your brain health

For the brain to notice opportunities effectively and make decisions, it needs good working conditions.

Experts recommend:

- getting at least 7–8 hours of sleep;

- spending time in morning daylight every day;

- doing aerobic exercise (walking, running, swimming or cycling) for at least 30 minutes three times a week;

- spending 10–15 minutes meditating or practising mindfulness.

These habits improve attention, memory, decision-making ability and resilience to stress.

8. Stay open to new things, but do not forget common sense

Being open to new opportunities really does help achieve success. However, in situations where the cost of a mistake is high, it is important to combine courage with discipline, follow the rules and carefully assess the risks.

Scientists stress that luck is neither magic nor an innate talent. To a large extent, it depends on how ready a person is to notice opportunities, take action, learn from their own mistakes and maintain brain health. Over time, these habits create the impression that some people are “luckier” than others.