Understanding “Luck” and Its True Nature
We often observe individuals seemingly achieving their goals effortlessly, as if the world conspires in their favor. In such instances, we label them “lucky” and lament our own lack of fortune. However, psychiatrist Marian Rojas Estapé argues that “luck favors the prepared mind.”
- Preparation is Key: Without proper mental preparation and necessary skills, one may miss out on opportunities when they arise.
- The Role of Cortisol and Stress: Rojas Estapé explains that we live in a world of constant change and are saturated with cortisol, the stress hormone activated during life-threatening situations.
Cortisol and Its Impact on Opportunity Recognition
During her speech at México Siglo XXI 2025, organized by Fundación Telmex Telcel, Rojas Estapé elaborated on the effects of cortisol and stress in our lives.
- Cortisol’s Role: This stress hormone keeps us on edge and prevents us from recognizing opportunities.
- Human Biology: Humans are biologically designed for survival, not happiness. Our most crucial bodily mechanisms are geared towards survival.
- Cortisol Activation: Cortisol activates not only during life-threatening situations but also in effective survival scenarios—professional, economic, social, and trauma-inducing situations.
The stress caused by cortisol results in physical symptoms like constant fatigue, stomach issues, rapid heartbeat, and muscle tension. Psychologically, it leads to increased irritability, impatience, anxiety, mental blockage, and potential depression.
Managing the Mind and Preparing for Opportunities
Rojas Estapé, author of books like “Find Your Vitamin Person” and “How to Make Good Things Happen,” emphasizes that our perception of uncertainty significantly impacts our future. She warns:
- Unfounded Worry: Constantly focusing on insecurity can poison our bodies, making it harder to recognize opportunities.
- Preparation and Opportunity: Opportunities are more visible when we are prepared and not paralyzed by fear.
Additionally, we are oversaturated with dopamine—the pleasure hormone fueled by social media and technology. This overexposure makes it challenging to discern genuine opportunities and maintain self-awareness.
Strategies for Managing Mindset and Preparation
Rojas Estapé recommends understanding oneself, recognizing cortisol and dopamine triggers, and managing them through distractions like sports, painting, or socializing.
Attitude Matters: Treat yourself with kindness. Approaching a job interview with self-doubt—e.g., “I don’t meet the high English level requirement”—can hinder your chances of success. Instead, maintain a balanced self-perception and compassion towards yourself.
Key Questions and Answers
- Q: What does Marian Rojas Estapé mean by “luck favors the prepared mind”?
A: Rojas Estapé asserts that preparation and having the necessary skills are crucial for recognizing and seizing opportunities. - Q: How does cortisol affect our ability to recognize opportunities?
A: Cortisol, the stress hormone, keeps us on edge and prevents us from noticing opportunities due to constant alertness. - Q: What role does dopamine play in missing opportunities?
A: Overexposure to dopamine, driven by social media and technology, can cloud our judgment and make it difficult to distinguish genuine opportunities. - Q: How can we better manage our mindset to recognize opportunities?
A: Understand yourself, identify triggers for cortisol and dopamine, and use distractions like exercise or hobbies to maintain balance.
