Takeaway
on our current course because we feel anxious about the unknowns that might be encountered by changing directions .
On the other hand , often it would be better if we stepped out of our comfort zone and heeded comedian Milton Berle ’ s ad‐ vice that , “ Luck is when opportunity knocks , and you answer .” For instance , ten years ago when I vacationed in San Diego my wife and I decided to look at houses for sale in San Diego , just in case we wanted to move there someday . We were far from ready to move since I was in the middle of my career as a tenured professor in Syracuse , New York . By chance , we were shown a house that was not yet on the market , which matched our dream list for an ideal future home .
We recognised this as an amazing opportunity in a very competitive housing market and within a day decided to make an offer on the home , which was accepted . Ownership of that house led to our move to San Diego much earlier than we had anticipated , and we have been grateful ever since to be able to live in our new neighbourhood and to have the privilege of establishing a new counselling practice .
It is also worth keeping in mind Milton Berle ’ s follow-up adage , “ If opportunity doesn ’ t knock , build a door .”
Takeaway
Some people are born with advantages over others , or catch “ lucky ” breaks . But we can increase our luck by maintaining a positive and flexible attitude , expanding our relationships and knowledge , persevering , and practicing gratitude .
Ran D . Anbar , M . D ., FAAP , is board-certified in both pediatric pulmonology and general pediatrics . He is the author of the new book Changing Children ’ s Lives with Hypnosis : A Journey to the Center .
Online : www . centerpointhypnosis . com