A career coach has revealed how we can all use the so-called 'luck of the Irish' to achieve our goals.

Melissa Stone, 43 - a HR professional with over 20 years of experience - has revealed that the phrase "luck of the Irish" isn't about chance."

She said it is all about perspective and making the most of opportunities - making your own luck by staying open to opportunities.

Melissa said to harness the luck of the Irish, you need to recognise your wins, stop comparing yourself to others, and surround yourself with positive influences.

The executive career coach and HR director, from County Wexford, Ireland, said: "For centuries, the Irish have been known for their luck."



"But this so-called 'luck of the Irish' isn't just about chance. Its actually about perspective - and a mindset that invites opportunity rather than repels it."

"We've all heard the phrase 'what you focus on grows'. "

"Yet, in our careers and lives, many of us focus more on what we lack rather than what we have."

"Luck isn't just about chance, it's about mindset, action, and seeing opportunities where others see obstacles."

Melissa said that if you're struggling with a difficult boss, a salary that doesn't stretch far enough, or a career that feels stagnant, those thoughts can dominate, leaving us frustrated and unfulfilled.

Melissa said: "It's easy to get stuck in this cycle, but just as positivity attracts more positivity, negativity breeds more negativity."

"Meaning if we spend all our time focusing on what we don't have, we unintentionally create more obstacles, stress, and dissatisfaction. "

"So what if, instead of focusing on what's missing, you started paying attention to what you already have."

Melissa said that successful people aren't just lucky, and they create their own luck by staying open to opportunities.

Melissa said: "Successful people aren't just lucky; they create their own luck by staying open to opportunities, taking action, and choosing to see the positives in their situations."

"Many professionals feel stuck in their careers because they believe external factors...such as a difficult manager, a lack of opportunities, or an industry downturn are holding them back. "

"But the most successful professionals aren't waiting for luck to find them. Instead, they actively shape their careers by shifting their mindset."

Melissa's top tips to harness the Luck of the Irish, start by shifting your focus:

- Recognize your wins—big or small, they matter
- Stop comparing yourself to others—your journey is unique
- Take control—seek out opportunities instead of waiting for them to come to you
- Surround yourself with positive influences—mentors, coaches, and supportive peers can help reshape your outlook