Happenstance is often described as a twist of fate or circumstances that seem random but turn out for the best. But is it really all by chance? I’ve found that many of the best moments in my life came from being open to these "lucky" encounters—moments I gave space to, and even actively sought out.
One of my favourite travel principles is: “When in doubt, turn left.” The follow-up to that is: “Get lost.” It’s not about losing direction—more about losing the expectation of a straight path. If I’m wandering down a quiet street and spot a side road to my left, that’s the one I take. More times than not, it’s led me to something wonderful: an unexpected view, a quirky shop, or an interesting conversation. Many of my best memories have come when I wasn’t exactly sure where I was going.
And when I’m in a crowd or just passing through a busy space, I often greet someone nearby with, “Hello, my friend…” Just like that. I can’t count how many times someone has been willing to chat or offer help. Most of the time, people respond with kindness, openness, and genuine interest. It’s funny how a simple, friendly approach can turn a mundane moment into something memorable.
I’ve also come to realise that success, in a sense, happens when preparation meets opportunity. But here’s the thing: we can create our own opportunities by putting ourselves out there. You don’t just wait for things to happen—you make them happen. It’s about being deliberate with your choices and opening yourself to what could come next.
To make this work, start by ensuring you feel SAFE—whatever safety means for you. Understand that stepping outside your comfort zone is part of the process. Embrace it. Let go of the need to control everything. Be respectful of others, and when in doubt, count back from five and then just go for it.
Allowing yourself to embrace vulnerability opens the door to powerful emotions—curiosity, wonder, and joy. Stepping out of your comfort zone doesn’t just stretch it, it can make it bigger. And in the end, you might just find a little bit of magic along the way.