Serendipity has been one of the most remarkable aspects of my life, especially during my exchange semester in Shanghai. Some people attribute it to divine intervention, while others dismiss it as mere luck. The truth? I'm not entirely sure. For me, the answer lies somewhere in between, as most things in life do.
My Perspective on Luck:
Belief in a Higher Power: If believing in a higher power is positive and makes you a better person in some way, continue this belief.
Understanding Luck: Luck isn't just about sheer chance. I encourage you to read about the four types of luck classified by Dr. James Austin to gain a deeper understanding of this concept.
A short summary of the 4 types of luck:
Most people think there’s only blind luck. But the truth is there are more than one type of luck:
Blind Luck: Purely random events completely outside of one’s control, such as where or to whom you are born, or winning the lottery.
Luck from Motion: Luck generated by taking action, hustling, and creating opportunities through movement and effort. This type of luck arises because motion increases the chances for random encounters and opportunities (like I did in Shanghai).
Luck from Awareness: Luck that comes from being perceptive and knowledgeable enough to recognize and seize opportunities that others might miss.
Luck from Uniqueness: Luck that arises from one’s distinctive traits, skills, or interests that attract unique opportunities and advantages.
You can’t control blind luck. But you can control the other 3 types of luck.
A Fun Story of Serendipity:
During my time in Shanghai, I got the opportunity to meet the co-founder of China's largest hackathon, a high school student conducting research at the MIT Media Labs. Our paths crossed because I had applied to his hackathon (and was selected, by the way).
This opportunity arose because I met someone at a Google Developer Group event in Shanghai who had participated in the hackathon the previous year. I attended this event after seeing a student's WeChat Moment about it (similar to an Instagram Story).
But how did I know this student? It all started with my decision to join the ultimate frisbee club and introduce myself as a French exchange student.
Reflections on this story:
What are the chances of this situation happening? If I hadn't introduced myself in that group, would I have gotten this opportunity? I can't say for sure. But one thing I know is that by putting myself out there and seizing opportunities, amazing things have happened in my life. And I don't plan to stop anytime soon.
Question of the week:
What serendipitous event changed your life?
Until next week,
Rémy
