How to be a Successful Lottery Winner

While no one can give you a series of guaranteed winning digits or the secret to picking numbers that will put the jackpot in your pocket, I can give you the next best thing – the secrets to being a SUCCESSFUL lottery winner. What I have learned from working with lottery winners will be helpful for anyone who comes into a sizable sum of money from any source – be it a lottery ticket, an inheritance, a job bonus or a successful trip to Vegas.

Are you newly rich and wanting to stay that way? Hold onto your wallet and heed this advice:

• Keep quiet. Advertising your windfall can open you to scams, violent crimes and endless requests for money.

• Stand firm with the kids. Kids need to know that working is important for everyone. Don’t give them a free ride just because you can afford to.

• Practice your response. You don’t owe anyone an explanation for why you are suddenly showing signs of having money.  However, if you feel the need to explain, a simple “I made an investment that paid off” will suffice.

• Keep your day job – or at least some job. A job is more than a way to earn a living: It can give our lives meaning. If you don’t like your current job, look for a different job, one that may pay less. You can even work part time or devote a day or two each week to volunteer. Just work.

• Learn to be a good money manager. When you come into a large sum of money, it is easy to believe it will last forever. Chances are, though, it won’t. Develop good money management habits early in life by setting and adhering to realistic budgets, and you’ll be ready to be a successful lottery winner.

The Mega Millions drawing is at 11 p.m. Good luck!