Be Lucky Like a Leprechaun

And discover your own pot of gold

By Michael Varma

Leprechauns are lucky, that’s for sure, but who do they search for to capture their fairy fortune? Nobody. These harding work elves discovered to be lucky simply offer one (or all four) magical well wishes related to the universally accepted symbol of good luck; the four-leaf clover: hope, faith, love, and luck.

HOPE

DC Comic’s fictional Superman has been portrayed by many a man including Christopher Reeve and although not a leprechaun – or having a lick of Irish in him – he often stated, “Once you choose hope, anything's possible.”

• When the World says, give up, hope whispers, try it one more time.
• All it takes is one bloom of hope to make a spiritual garden.
• Hope is putting faith to work when doubting would be easier.

FAITH

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a Baptist minister and civil rights activist who had a dream and preached, “Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.” Your internal belief – mental, spiritual or gut instinct, will drive success.

• Feed your faith and your fears will starve to death.
• A little faith brings your soul to heaven, but a lot of faith brings heaven to your soul.
• Faith can move mountains, but don't be surprised if you receive a shovel.

LOVE

Theodor Gisel, also known as Dr. Suess, wrote, “You know you're in love when you don't want to fall asleep because reality is finally better than your dreams.” Of the 46 children’s books he wrote, all kept the universal theme: "love one another."

• Let your love be like the misty rains, coming softly, but flooding the river.
• Love is like a wild rose, beautiful and calm, but willing to draw blood in its defense.
• Love is an act of endless forgiveness, a tender look which becomes a habit.

LUCK

American television and radio host Larry King says, “Those who have succeeded at anything and don't mention luck are kidding themselves.” I believe King’s quote is true and that you’re always the right person, in the right place, at the right time and have the proper skillset to make a magical moment.

• Luck is when opportunity knocks and you answer.
• Luck never gives: it only lends.
• Luck is the by-product of busting your butt.

You can waste years looking for leprechauns to try and steal their pot of gold or you could spend less time and follow their lead and find your own fortune. Learn to be Lucky and generate your own luck and offer your own tasteful toasts.

Your turn: What have you done to become lucky?

Michael Varma, is an award-winning instructor, professional magician, and once was excused from jury duty... by his cat. He has authored a series of educational puzzle books (Mental Blocks), created games (Arithmesticks), earned his Distinguished Toastmaster designation and recently penned a mystery novel. Michael frequently performs at the Magic Castle in Hollywood, California.

Yes, you can email Michael for a free guest pass to the Magic Castle ~ and you don’t need to subscribe to his funny and informational blog…but it would be worth it.

Learn to be Lucky

Follow the three Vs to your pot of gold

Some people seem to have all the luck. They not only avoid the pink-slip parade at work, they receive a promotion with a healthy increase in pay, to boot. Do they have a four-leaf clover hidden in their front pocket? No. These savvy folks have a simple secret. They generate luck by applying the three Vs: vision, valor and vigor.

Vision

Every prosperous person will cite a driving force: a vision. The ultimate dream, a heart’s desire or personal pot of gold can only be achieved once a goal has been established. Wanting to retire by the age of 42, becoming a published author or lecturing around the country commanding a five-figure fee are prime examples.

“People with goals succeed because they know where they’re going.” ~ Earl Nightingale

Motivated individuals tend to have more than one ambition and each is clearly defined. A mental, and sometimes physical, outline starts them on their journey.

Valor

The next step in realizing a vision requires an act of bravery – to move forward and have the courage to divide that big dream into smaller, manageable actionable work assignments.

“I find that the harder I work, the more luck I seem to have.” ~ Thomas Jefferson

You can – and should – ask for help with this chunking strategy. Often you will discover one or more subject matter experts – how lucky is that? – who may guide you through seemingly impossible tasks.

Vigor

As you encounter insurmountable obstacles – and you will because that’s the reality of life – remain calm, be brave, and continue to ask for help along the way. True “luck” occurs when you recognize opportunities and take advantage of incoming phone calls and emails, visiting family and friends, and other helpful messengers of luck.

"Successful people keep moving." ~ Conrad Hilton

Celebrate the many minor matters you resolve and each major milestone you achieve. Every victory fosters self-confidence and strengthens your resolve, driving you to complete your original vision.

Consider the Arab proverb: Throw a lucky man into the sea and he will come up with a fish. Is he truly lucky or did he assess his dire situation and act boldly in order to survive being tossed into the ocean?

Luck frequently accompanies the men and women employing the three V’s. Whether it’s an original vision or the sighting of a golden opportunity, have the valor and vigor to pursue the prospect and find your pot of gold.

A tasteful toast to your good fortune:

May your pockets be heavy

And your heart be light

May good luck pursue you

Every morning, noon and night

Michael Varma is a freelance writer, award-winning presenter and professional magician. To learn more, visit www.MichaelVarma.com. Contact Michael Varma, the author of Tasteful Toasts, for permission to reprint this article. Copyright February 2011 Magical Concepts.