Daniel Blodgett Many people look to others who are considered successful and merely classify them as lucky. The individuals who discredit successful people as only lucky do not understand the true meaning of luck and how controllable it can be for anyone. It is safe to say that just about everyone has heard of Oprah Winfrey as well as her fame and fortune. Ms. Winfrey once said, ”Luck is a matter of preparation meeting opportunity.” The most powerful woman in the world with her own television network could not be more correct in her statement. Luck is something that can be controlled, predicted and even managed with the right understanding. In order to understand how I see the management of luck it is crucial to see when you are presented with an opportunity. In my experience, one of the biggest mistakes one can make on the path to success is not comprehending or seeing an opportunity when it is in front of them. I am active in the car business and I am always open to a good deal on the purchase cheaply priced car with the goal of turning it for a profit. However, in my experience the cheaply priced cars are not the obvious advertised sales. They are the cars that someone does not necessarily advertise for sale, but when questioned about selling it the owner may name a price that is under value. It is that skill of knowing when to see the opportunity for a cheap deal and being able to pursue it accordingly that makes someone lucky. Actively finding opportunities is not enough for one to become lucky. Equally important is being prepared to take advantage of a situation when an opportunity presents itself. This sort of preparation can come in many different forms: from being mentally prepared to task this new opportunity or having the physical capabilities to capitalize on a situation. In regards to my example above when it comes to the purchase of a car, the ability to seek out a cheap deal would be pointless if there were not funds ready on demand to pay for the car or even a place to take the vehicle before sale. These are examples of things that I always try to have ready at any given point so that I can be adequately prepared for any opportunity. That is luck. Luck is being prepared and being able to see an opportunity for what it is. Oprah was simply describing the very concept of luck. As successful as Oprah is, it is obvious that she is always prepared and open to new opportunities. As a role model it is inspiring to see someone who can make a name for themselves with a very simple concept and I strive to follow suit. As long as we stay prepared and with eyes open I believe we all can find true luck.