LUCK. 🎰

For those unfamiliar with Hearthstone, it is an online card game that gained immense popularity during my high school years, celebrated for its mix of strategic depth and unpredictable outcomes.

At the peak of my obsession, I was the #2 ranked tournament player in the Pacific region, often sought out by amateurs for advice on improving their gameplay. I’d frequently emphasize how my performance wasn’t solely skill-based, given the significant role of RNG (random variance) in the game. For instance, a card like Piloted Shredder could summon another random monster, hugely swinging the game in my favor. Likewise, there was always the inherent randomness of drawing a strong opening hand or top-decking the perfect utility card at a critical moment.

Yet, I maintained that a high-level Hearthstone player’s true skill was measured by their ability to navigate this randomness—strategically setting themselves up for success by balancing immediate risks with potential future rewards.

In many of the same ways, life is full of uncertainty. While hard work and dedication often lead to success, we can’t ignore the undeniable influence of luck. Some individuals may experience undeservedly good fortune, such as winning the lottery. But many who appear “lucky” are not relying on chance alone. Instead, they lay the groundwork to ensure they’re ready to capitalize on opportunities when they arise.

"Luck is when preparation meets opportunity,” Seneca reminds us. In both Hearthstone and in life, success often belongs to those who actively create the conditions necessary for their success. How are you preparing to turn life’s randomness into your advantage?