Let me begin by stating that the title of this blog post is absolutely false. Opportunities don’t fall into some people’s laps more than others; they are presented to everyone. However, what sets some people apart from others is their open-mindedness when opportunities present themselves and their decisive actions moving forward toward that opportunity and what it might mean for their ultimate goals.
Do you always have your eyes, ears, and mind open for unexpected opportunities? The better question would actually be, do you have your eyes, ears, and mind open for information that you can then turn into an opportunity to further your life and/or career? Many people don’t believe in things like luck… or opportunities falling into someone’s lap; they like to make their own way. However, luck may not have anything to do with it.
Think about it. Some piece of information that spells increased sales for one person’s store could mean absolutely nothing when presented to someone who works in real estate. So, sure… luck might have a little bit to do with it, but that isn’t all there is to it. Between people having very different needs and most people walking away rather than taking action, this plays a large role in what sets people who go after opportunities apart from those who don’t.
The lost important aspect of someone who seems to have opportunities fall into their lap all the time is that they are always paying attention and then taking action based on the information they receive. They usually don’t hesitate but instead, follow their instincts and take the opportunity for what it is. They also tend to be very resourceful to ensure that they have the ability to pounce when opportunity comes knocking. Depending on the situation and the opportunity, it may also involve some nervousness or fear. However, it’s best to work through that rather than avoiding it, especially if you need something to happen that you will get that much closer to by following through with a specific opportunity.
So, how do you go about finding your opportunities and making them help you with your overall goals (or even your short-term goals)? Here are some things to keep in mind when you begin your journey to finding new opportunities.
• Do you really have to be in the right place at the right time? Maybe… but not necessarily. You just have to be paying attention no matter where you are. If you can be aware of your surroundings you allow more information in and, therefore, more potential opportunities.
• Are you comfortable with taking action based on new information? Too many people feel safe and comfortable in the lifestyle they’ve grown accustomed to. However, if you find yourself craving change, needing things to be different, then don’t sell yourself short by talking yourself out of taking action based on an opportunity or information you came across. Sometimes the best changes come from taking action you might be uncomfortable with taking at first.
• Are you comfortable with the consequences of either taking action based on the opportunity or not doing anything? What might each option lead to? If staying put means you stay stuck in a dead-end job, is that a consequence you’re okay with?
As a mindful leader, you probably already try to keep your eyes and ears open for any opportunities you might come across. This could be for work, for your team, or for your home or family. It doesn’t matter why you’re seeking out new opportunities, but it’s excellent for you to do so and follow any opportunities that fit your needs (or wants). Like with anything else, it’s important to put yourself out there and pay attention. So why not invite opportunity to fall into your lap?
