I was brought up with the work ethic that success requires dedication and hard work. The concept of “luck” was for winning the lottery (although even there, you have to buy a ticket). With that in mind, I have worked hard and succeeded at just about every job and career I’ve chosen. When I haven’t succeeded, I’ve been able to look back and see where more effort would have produced a different outcome.

However, the last few years I’ve heard the phrase “good luck” more often than I think I’ve heard it my entire life. Is it the industry I’ve chosen? Is it a sign of the times? Never having considered myself a lucky person, the concept is disconcerting. Add to that, I’ve noticed an unprecedented number of people succeeding (or at least appearing to do so) by shear luck - born into a family that hands them what they need, having the right friends at the right time who help them…and it makes me wonder.

Do we need “luck” to succeed?