Justin Welsh Argues Luck is Manufactured Through High-Quality Output

In a recent LinkedIn post, Justin Welsh discusses his perspective on how individuals can “manufacture more luck” in their careers and lives. Rather than viewing luck as a random event, Welsh posits that it is the direct result of consistent, high-quality effort and a positive mindset.

Welsh begins by stating his core belief:

“I’m convinced that luck is manufactured. That it’s the outcome of putting a bunch of high-quality work and energy out into the world.”

The Output-Driven Approach to Luck

According to Welsh, the key to increasing one’s ‘luck’ lies in action and quality. He emphasizes the importance of doing more, and doing it better. This involves a broad spectrum of activities, from increased engagement and outreach to greater support and overall personal development. As Justin Welsh notes, the journey of those perceived as ‘lucky’ is often characterized by:

“Every time I meet someone who got ‘lucky,’ their story is a never-ending journey of high-intensity, high-quality, optimistic monster output.”

This perspective directly contrasts with individuals who attribute success to external factors or random chance, often without acknowledging the underlying effort. Welsh suggests that those who complain about others’ luck are typically engaging in behaviors that hinder their own progress.

The Contrast: Complaining vs. Creating

Justin Welsh highlights a stark dichotomy between two groups of people when it comes to achieving success. On one side are the “optimistic, high-energy, high-quality output folks.” These individuals actively contribute and maintain a positive outlook, which Welsh implies cultivates opportunities.

On the other side are “the complainers who have already convinced themselves that the world it out to get them.” According to Welsh, this group often engages in behaviors that are counterproductive to generating positive outcomes:

“Complaining, whining, moaning, victimhood, everyone-else-has-it-fair-except-for-me nonsense.”

Welsh argues that this negative mindset and behavior directly impede the creation of opportunities, effectively preventing the ‘manufacturing’ of luck. He frames the choice between these two approaches as a fundamental decision point for individuals in their professional and personal lives.

Making the Choice for Success

Ultimately, Justin Welsh presents a call to action, urging readers to reflect on their own approach. He suggests that by choosing to be part of the group that produces high-quality output with optimism, individuals can significantly increase their chances of experiencing what is commonly perceived as luck. Conversely, dwelling in a state of complaint and victimhood ensures the opposite outcome. As Welsh concludes, the decision rests with the individual: which group’s table will they choose to sit at?