Why is it that some people seem to be inundated with opportunities? While others seem to be hunting without success? Is it the simple result of hard work? Luck? Or something more. In this article we will look at one aspect that may create a whole new set of outcomes for you. Mindset. Specifically, how to attract opportunity instead of chasing it.

"Stop chasing the wrong things. The right things will come to you when you give them a chance." - Unknown

Let’s look at two freelance Project Managers trying to find new opportunities. They may be coming to the end of their last major project and in need of a new income stream. Bills to pay and responsibilities at home. These PM’s would naturally feel the need for action. They might search the internet and reach out to their contacts. These are natural things to do in a job search. But there are some differences between these two professionals. One is filled with anxiety. He reaches out and tells everyone that he is desperate. He needs to make ends meet and thus is deserving of help. He is anxious and reads deeply into the body language (and actual language) of everyone he corresponds with. They can sense his fear. PM number two is more relaxed. She speaks confidently about her value. She humbly and self assuredly explains to prospects that she is an expert in her field and that she is selective in her work. She wants to make the maximum impact on projects that are a good fit for her. It’s almost as if clients are trying to convince her that she should choose THEM. It’s clear which professional will be the first to win meaningful work.

Chasing is a state of constant anxiety, fear and lack of trust. It is easy to see this in our relationships. We may act in a state of anxiety towards a person we wish to form a relationship with, be in personal or professional. We fear rejection or our fear that we are inadequate. It often drains us and makes us feel worthless. Attraction comes from a place of peace. We are secure in our own value. We are trusting in the knowledge that what is meant for us will come to us. Attraction is a state of belief rather than a state of disbelief.

Tension is who you think you should be. Stillness is who you truly are. - Author Unknown.

In order to attract, you need to have knowledge of what you desire. If you do not clearly know what you want from life you will not be able to add energy towards the manifestation of that dream. In short, you need to get out of your own way. And what stands in your own way in deep fear and doubt.

So what is necessary in order to move from chasing to attracting?

• Belief. If you do not move towards a true belief in your positive future and fulfillment of your goals you will have much less chance of achieving them. Delusion is negative but doubt is inevitable but if we focus on creating a positive mindset it will become easier with time to truly believe. 

• Trust. Trust that your intuition will guide you and that life will work out for you. That it will all be ok and that you are not destined to fail. That you have survived difficulties before and that you will do it again. Also trust in your own abilities and that you will know what to do in order to overcome any challenges. People will trust in you only if you trust in yourself. This isn’t a call to arrogance and false confidence, but rather the quiet assuredness that comes from proving yourself over and over. The often-cited growth mindset says that whatever happens, we can learn and grow and overcome. This is a strong, attractive mindset to cultivate.

• Patience. The boundaries we place on ourselves are often time bound. Yes, technical people love to set deadlines, but events are under no obligation to work to your arbitrarily defined schedule. When patterns unfold which do not align to your time-bound expectations, do not allow anxiety to inhibit your confidence. Focus on the actions that you are taking to reach your target and keep them going.

"Stop running after the waves. Let the right ones come to you and wash you ashore." - Unknown

Here are some other quick tips on how to demonstrate self worth and allow attraction to work in your favour:

• Work on your most important goals. Misalignment in your work will lead to you feeling the tension which comes from having things undone and progress slowed.

• Create and document your vision. Write down where you want to progress toward. Describe your ideal life/project/relationships/income. Once your vision is clear it creates space for energies to flow into that direction.

• Admire others, but do not place them on a pedestal. Once we place others above ourselves, we see them as looking down on us. And us as inferior. This creates resentment. Admire others and strive to emulate their good characteristics and achievements. But recognise them as your equals. Place a value on your own positive traits. Then you can sit at the table with anyone and you can both be in a mutually beneficial and trusting relationship.

• Invest in your own growth. Allocate time and money and space to your growth. Your mental and physical health. Your knowledge. An investment in yourself pays dividends in grand and often unexpected ways.

• Define your unique value proposition. You are different from anyone else. Nobody can be a better version of you, than you. Define the value you bring. Write it and record it and focus on it. When you are clear of the value that you bring, others are much more attracted to that value.

• Demonstrate thought leadership. Establish yourself as an expert by sharing your knowledge and insights. Leverage various platforms, such as writing articles, speaking at conferences, or participating in webinars. Consistently provide valuable content that showcases your expertise and demonstrates your passion for your industry. By becoming a trusted resource, you attract opportunities for collaboration and thought leadership positions.

"You don't have to chase love or success. When you radiate the essence of who you are, love and success come to you." - David Deida

Rather than chasing after every opportunity that comes your way, adopting a mindset of attraction empowers you to create a force that draws opportunities toward you. By cultivating a growth mindset, defining your unique value proposition, demonstrating expertise and remaining proactive and open-minded, you position yourself as a magnet for professional and personal opportunities. Remember, attracting opportunities is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and a commitment to yourself. Be proud.