Inspired by Frans Johansson’s book “The Click Moment,” I’ve been contemplating how seemingly random events shape our greatest successes. Johansson argues that breakthrough innovations often stem from unexpected “click moments” rather than meticulous planning.
But are these moments truly random? My February original six and now seven, random experiences suggest otherwise.
1. The Ripple Effect of Passionate Advocacy
This month, I shared the message of “The Audacity Spectrum” with Allianz Global Investors, GIC WING network, and everywoman’s audience. While these opportunities might appear as strokes of luck, they represent the convergence of years of relationship-building and the power of passionate advocates who believe in my message.
The truth: Behind every “lucky break” stands someone who saw your potential before others did.
2. 10,000 LinkedIn Followers: The Power of Consistency
Reaching 10,000 LinkedIn followers this month wasn’t random—it was the cumulative effect of three years crafting these newsletters and genuinely engaging with you, my community. (Though I did randomly miss counting a full year in my last newsletter when I called it my 20th instead of 32nd!)
The truth: Overnight success typically takes years of showing up when no one’s watching.
3. When Criticism Becomes Confirmation
After inviting reviews for my book, I received a 2/5 rating on Amazon. My initial disappointment quickly transformed into understanding: impactful books polarize opinion. As I wrote in my January newsletter “When Commitment Meets Disappointment,” these reactions validate that my message is reaching people deeply enough to provoke reaction.
I recently declared I’d rather be a “toxic optimist” than a “constructive cynic” in response to a HBR article. Taking stands means inviting disagreement.
The truth: If everyone loves your work, you’re probably not saying anything important enough.
4. Moving Mountains Through Advocacy
My mentor Ritch Litvin recently shared an extraordinary story about Jeff Harmon, a former member of our 4PC community, who despite relying on a wheelchair due to a neurological condition, has enrolled 30 people to help him climb Mount Kilimanjaro this September.
This embodies my definition of advocacy: when you care so deeply about someone or something that you can literally move mountains. When facing seemingly impossible challenges, remember that someone has already made the impossible possible—you just need to find those inspiring role models.
The truth: No significant achievement happens through solitary effort. Audacious goals require audacious support systems.
5. Fifty Years of “Non-Random” Love
Celebrating my sister’s 50th birthday this month, alongside our parents, who have shared 50+ years together, reminded me that enduring relationships aren’t accidental. Their half-century bond represents countless decisions to choose understanding, compromise, and recommitment.
The truth: What looks like luck in relationships is actually persistent, intentional care.
6. Five Years of Audacious Transformation
As we prepare for the 5th anniversary of our Adaptaa Audacious Leaders Retreats in Transylvania this May, I’m reflecting on how these “random” gatherings have sparked profound transformations. With just a few spots remaining, I invite you to join us for what might seem like a random adventure but could become your most intentional transformation yet.
The truth: The most life-changing opportunities often disguise themselves as random invitations.
7. When Life Reminds Us of Its Precious Nature
As I write this final section, I’ve just received devastating news that stopped me in my tracks: the sudden loss of a dear family friend who was just 23 years old. Some moments of randomness shake us to our core, defying our attempts to find meaning or patterns. They arrive without warning, without preparation, and leave us grappling with life’s profound fragility.
The truth: While we can’t control life’s most random moments, we can control how we choose to live each day we’re given. Perhaps the most audacious act of leadership is to fully embrace the preciousness of each moment, each connection, each opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life.
What appears random in our lives—the fortuitous meeting, the unexpected opportunity, the surprising connection, and even the sudden loss, is often the visible tip of an iceberg supported by consistent action, authentic relationships, and courageous choices.
And tonight, I invite you to join me in a moment of profound gratitude. Reach out to someone you love. Share your appreciation. Make that call you’ve been putting off. Because while success may not be random, life itself is precious and finite. Let’s not wait for tomorrow to create the moments that matter most.
With love, Alina x