"Je dis que la chance, c'est quand une opportunité se présente et que vous êtes prêt pour cela."

Luck is often seen as this magical force that just happens to some people and not to others. But, what if I told you that luck is less mysterious than we think? It’s about being prepared when the right moment comes along. Preparation and opportunity — that’s the real magic combo.

Imagine you’re a musician. You practice every day, honing your skills, learning new techniques, and mastering your instrument. One day, an agent walks into the café where you’re performing and is blown away by your talent. They offer you a record deal on the spot. Some might say you’re lucky. But was it really luck, or were you just ready for that opportunity when it crossed your path?

This idea isn't new. Thomas Edison is famous for saying, "Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration." The underlying concept is the same. Success isn’t just about the right moment arriving — it’s about being ready to seize that moment when it does.

Think back to 2008 when the financial crisis hit. Many people lost their jobs, but some saw it as a chance to pivot and start their own businesses. They’d been saving, learning about entrepreneurship, and building networks. When the corporate world crumbled, they were ready to seize new opportunities. It wasn’t just luck — it was foresight and preparation.

So, how can you use this wisdom in your own life? Start by identifying what you want. Is there a dream job you're aiming for, a skill you want to master, or a personal goal you’re passionate about? Once you know your target, break it down into actionable steps. Let's say you want to become a graphic designer. Start learning the tools of the trade — software like Adobe Photoshop or Illustrator. Build a portfolio, even if it’s just volunteer work or personal projects. Network with people in the industry.

Now, let’s paint a scene to illustrate this. Picture Jane, a school teacher with a passion for baking. She spends her weekends experimenting with recipes and perfecting her cakes. She occasionally brings her creations to school, and her colleagues love them. One day, the parent of one of her students, who runs a local café, tries one of Jane’s cakes and offers her a partnership to supply desserts to the café. Jane seizes the opportunity, and her side hustle starts to grow. You could say it was luck, but really, it was Jane’s preparation meeting opportunity.

In our own lives, we might not always see the payoff immediately. But, if we keep preparing, learning, and growing, we’re setting ourselves up to catch those opportunities when they fly by.

So, think about what you’re passionate about. What skills can you start sharpening today? What knowledge can you build on? Keep your eyes and ears open for those moments — because when preparation meets opportunity, that’s when the magic happens. And that’s when people say you’re lucky.

Remember, "luck" favors the prepared. Keep working, stay vigilant, and when your moment comes, you'll be ready to shine.