Luck o’ the Irish
Written By Troy Tait
I recently had the incredible opportunity to travel through Scotland and Ireland. The journey was packed with unforgettable sights—castles, cathedrals, lochs, pubs, museums, shops, and towns both quaint and bustling. Walking down cobbled streets, you could feel the weight of history beneath. We tasted food I hope never to encounter again and dishes I wish I could have right now. The weather? Perfect—at least for parts of the day. Then, in true Celtic fashion, it would shift in the blink of an eye.
Before the trip, I did some research on the areas we’d be visiting. But once we arrived, I realized no article or blog could truly capture what we were about to experience. This wasn’t a journey that could be described—it had to be lived. So, start planning your own adventure. And if you need suggestions, I’m happy to share.
Of all the wonders we encountered, one thing eluded me: the elusive pot of gold. I searched high and low for a leprechaun willing to part with his treasure, but alas, no luck. Still, my quest led me to a deeper understanding of the phrase "luck of the Irish."
This region is steeped in tradition, and the origins of that phrase are surprisingly complex. Originally, it was used as a slight—implying someone’s success was due to luck, not skill. Over time, though, it evolved into a more affectionate expression of good fortune that is still widely used today.
Here are a few superstitions that I found particularly fascinating:
TRINITY COLLEGE, DUBLIN
Students believe that walking under the Campanile while the bells toll will doom them to fail their exams. To reverse the curse, they must sprint to the statue of Provost George Salmon and touch his foot before the bells stop ringing.
ROYAL MILE, EDINBURGH
Rubbing the toe of 18th-century philosopher David Hume is said to bring luck—or perhaps a boost in wisdom. So many visitors have taken part that the toe now gleams bronze, in stark contrast to the statue’s weathered green patina.
BLARNEY CASTLE, IRELAND
Climbing over 200 spiral steps to kiss the Blarney Stone—while lying on your back and dangling 90 feet in the air—is said to grant the gift of eloquence and persuasive speech. I did it. I survived. And I may never speak the same way again.
While I didn’t find a leprechaun or stumble upon a pot of gold, I did return with something far more valuable: perspective. The traditions and superstitions I encountered—from rubbing statues to dodging bell towers—reminded me how deeply people crave luck. But in business, relying on luck alone is a risky strategy.
Success isn’t built on chance—it’s forged through preparation, persistence, and the courage to act when opportunity knocks. The “luck of the Irish” may be a charming phrase, but behind every thriving enterprise is a foundation of hard-earned skill, relentless effort, and cultivated talent. Luck might open a door, but it’s your ability to walk through it—and what you do once inside—that truly defines your journey. So, whether you are chasing rainbows or quarterly goals, remember fortune favors the prepared, determined and those who are willing to put in the work.
