Success is not coincidence or luck. It is the combination of hard work, perseverance, failure, learning, sacrifice, collaboration, and most of all to truly enjoy what we do.

Over the years, I have heard parts of the above statement from different highly successful individuals. From Warren Buffet and John Maxwell to the officers of organizations I have worked for. This is the culmination of those statements and one I've claimed as my own.

Why is this noteworthy? Because I don't believe in "luck". Yes, occasionally results happen where we had no perceivable involvement in a positive outcome. However, I think we actually create most positive opportunities that come our way by being prepared for all conceivable outcomes we are capable of forecasting. 

As a triathlete, I've competed in 8 Triathlons over the past year of varying distances in preparation for my 1st upcoming Ironman in Georgia. And before each race, friends, family, coaches and supporters wish me luck.

Actually, I am very grateful they wish me well. The mental boost is huge. But it always makes me grin as I think to myself "Its never about luck" and here's why:

It takes thousands of hours of training to become a competitive triathlete. It requires dedication and commitment to 3 sports and to be ready for a long list of negative situations to occur in anyone of them. Some would call these negative situations "bad luck", when it would be fair to call it being under prepared.

Here is an example. If my bike tire goes flat during a race, I have the parts and tools on my bike to repair it quickly and still complete the race. I practice changing flats over and over in every conceivable condition. In the extreme heat on the side of the road, in the driving rain and in temperatures so cold I can't feel my fingers. I'll even change flat tires while watching TV to the point where it it becomes habitual. I've changed a flat tire in every condition I will possibly encounter.  

And you know what? I have yet to experience a flat tire in a race. But I never worry because I know that in any type of circumstance, I can change a flat, be back on my bike in under 3 minutes, and remain in competition. Luck is not a factor. Preperation for every conceivable outcome is the success factor.

I believe we should approach our work the same way. Prepare for the inevitable. Have a "Plan B" and a "Plan C" for all that you are responsible for. Yes, it requires extra work. Work that is likely never asked of you to begin with. And like my flat tire scenario, it may be a while, if ever at all, before we get to leverage those back-up plans. But should they arise, luck won't be a factor. Instead, you'll be seen as the professional with vision who thinks ahead and has plans ready to go should a crisis arise.

I'll probably be to polite to say this, but the next time someone wishes me luck, maybe I'll reply with "Not if I can help it". <grin>  Mike