How to Build a Luck Surface Area for Your Career

Published on August 12, 2025

We often think of luck as a random, uncontrollable force. But what if I told you that you can actively increase your chances of getting lucky? The concept of a "luck surface area," popularized by entrepreneur Jason Roberts, is the idea that you can create more opportunities for serendipity in your life and career by consistently sharing your work and ideas with the world.

The Formula for Luck

The formula is simple: Luck = (Doing) x (Telling). The more you do, and the more you tell people about what you're doing, the larger your luck surface area becomes. It's a powerful combination of action and communication that can lead to unexpected opportunities, collaborations, and breakthroughs.

Expanding Your Luck Surface Area

Here are a few practical ways to expand your luck surface area:

  • Share Your Work in Public: Whether it's a blog, a podcast, a YouTube channel, or a social media account, find a platform to consistently share your work, your ideas, and your learnings. You never know who might be listening.
  • Build a Network of Allies: Networking is not about collecting business cards; it's about building genuine relationships. Be generous with your time and your knowledge, and you'll attract a network of people who are invested in your success.
  • Say Yes to Serendipity: Be open to unexpected opportunities, even if they don't fit neatly into your long-term plan. Attend a conference you wouldn't normally go to, grab coffee with someone outside your industry, or take on a project that stretches your skills.

"The harder I work, the luckier I get." - Samuel Goldwyn

The Compounding Interest of Luck

The beauty of a luck surface area is that it compounds over time. The more you share, the more people you connect with. The more people you connect with, the more opportunities come your way. It's a virtuous cycle that can transform your career from a linear path to an exponential one.

So, stop waiting for luck to strike. Start creating it. Do the work, tell the world, and watch as your luck surface area expands beyond your wildest dreams.