You’ve probably heard that luck plays as much of a part in the job search as your skills, connections, and employment history. So how can you create your own luck?

Now, I’m not talking about finding a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. As the old saying goes, “luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” Theoretically then, if you’re proactive in your job search, you’ll essentially be presented with “lucky” opportunities. While it’s not as easy as it seems, preparing yourself for the best case scenario can really work out in your favor.

It’s time to throw some luck on your job search, even if you have to create it yourself. In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, here are four simple ways to get there:

I’ve given a lot of advice about ways to land a job, nab those hidden connections, and manage your career to the best of your ability. But what happens when you already have a job and want to get out? What happens when you want to say goodbye?

The latest numbers from the Bureau of Labor Statistics indicate about 4.4 million total separations in December, including voluntary quits. If you want to be part of that voluntary number, you may have a certain “quit style” in mind. After all, I’m sure you’ve seen people who’ve said sayonara in a blaze of glory.

But in order to maintain a relationship with your current employer, as well as save your own image, you will need to be a little smarter. You need to say goodbye without losing your cool.

If you’re in the job search, you’re probably feeling a range of emotions. Whether you’re transitioning careers on your own accord or were let go by your employer, the job search is a tough sea to navigate — and your ship can be hard to steer when you’ve hit the metaphorical iceberg.

It’s easy to feel disheartened or unworthy when your job search is going nowhere. While you may go through many emotional stages, such as inner self criticism, feeling anger toward employers, or disbelief, it’s important to understand when your job search methods are working and when they should change. After all, if you’ve only been applying through LinkedIn, but have yet to see a response, it may be time to switch things up.

Today marks President’s Day, also known as George Washington’s birthday. While you may be enjoying a day off courtesy of our first president, you can actually gain a great deal from his legacy — namely, some important leadership lessons.

Being a leader, especially in your first go-round, is no easy feat. You’ll always have critics. You may have someone who thinks they can do it better than you. It’s hard to know if you’re ever good enough. However, like Washington, if you strive to do good, stick to your principles, and work really hard to be a great leader, good results will be bound to come your way.

In honor of President’s Day, here are some leadership lessons any professional can learn from George Washington:

Ah, Valentine’s Day. A day to show your affection for your loved ones. A day to make a good impression on that special someone. A time to pull out all the fireworks, chocolates, and showstoppers to illustrate how you really feel. While Valentine’s Day is a billion dollar industry, the gift you receive can be more than candy, quirky cards, and long-stemmed roses. You can actually be gifted with some power interview lessons.

The job search process and Valentine’s Day aren’t as far-fetched in comparison as you may believe. When you look at it from an overarching perspective, the way you may court a partner is the way you can court an employer, particular during and after a job interview.

The Olympic opening ceremony is just around the corner! While some of the games have already begun, preparations are well underway for the main event. Athletes from around the globe are perfecting their crafts, whether they’re figure skaters, snowboarders, or bobsledders.

So what career lessons can all professionals learn from one of the oldest events in the world?

The motto of the Olympics is Citius, Altius, Fortius, which is Latin for “Faster, Higher, Stronger.” This message, along with the stories of Olympians, can really teach you a thing or two about your career, whether you’re looking for a new job or want to improve your current situation.

Looking for a new job in 2014? Better have an action plan!

According to the latest CareerBuilder survey, one in five workers plan to make a career transition in 2014. The survey indicates this is due to varying factors, including the following:

Martin Luther King, Jr. was a pioneer for civil rights and a leader in activism. While his life was cut short, he is still viewed as one of the most influential players in U.S. history.

You may not realize it, but there’s a lot to learn from Martin Luther King, Jr. as it relates to your career. Even though he faced tons of challenges and had to walk through the lines of fire, Martin Luther King, Jr. can still provide you with some key career insights.

If you want to advance yourself professionally, there’s no one better to look up to than King. So, what are some career lessons you can learn from him? Check them out below:

Job loss is never a great situation, especially now. While the new year is a time of hope, your company may have downsized, completed a merger, or your skills may not be needed anymore. Whatever the reason, getting handed a pink slip isn’t ideal — and it can be confusing time.

Assuming your employer has given you ample notification, it’s time to act fast. The winter job search waits for no one, so put down that ice cream and turn off that sad music. You’ve got a job to find!

Here are four things to do immediately to get your job search started:

Think of your job search as a full-on sales pitch: You have the chance to sell your skills, your expertise, and your accomplishments to just about anyone. But, can you do it anywhere, too?

While old relatives, co-workers, or acquaintances may know where you’re living or your hobbies, they may not know details about your career and job search. However, it is possible to sell your job search to just about anyone, anywhere. Take these opportunities, for example: