The Science of Serendipity: How to Use Unplanned Moments to Boost Your Business

We try so hard to control every moment of our professional lives, don’t we? After all, that life is a whirlwind of deadlines, client demands, and the constant push to innovate. In the midst of it all, we often overlook the power of the unexpected—the moments of serendipity that can completely transform our careers. We think of serendipity as good fortune and lucky breaks, but it’s actually more about recognizing and embracing meaningful discoveries that arise when we least expect them. These moments can spark collaborations, inspire new ideas, or even solve problems you didn’t know how to tackle. In this article, we’ll explore how to notice, welcome, and make the most of these unplanned opportunities as you network and build your business. But don’t take our word for it; try embracing serendipity yourself!

What is Serendipity?

Serendipity, as explored by Dr. Bernard Beitman in this article for Psychology Today, refers to the unexpected discovery of something valuable or needed, often while looking for something else. Coined by Horace Walpole in the 18th century, the term originated from a Persian fairy tale about princes who used sharp observation and insight to navigate challenges. Today, serendipity highlights how curiosity, preparation, and openness can lead to meaningful, unplanned opportunities—affecting our lives and work in surprising and joyful ways.

Unlike others who see serendipity as something totally outside of our control, Dr. Bernard Beitman offers a nuanced perspective—emphasizing that it is not merely luck but a phenomenon requiring a combination of preparation, perseverance, and openness to unexpected opportunities. He highlights the role of keen observation and intentionality, likening it to a “human Geospatial Positioning System” that guides us toward the people, ideas, or things we need.

Beitman also connects serendipity to the “Law of Attraction,” suggesting that our thoughts and actions help draw these unexpected but meaningful discoveries into our lives. His view frames serendipity as a skill we can cultivate rather than a passive experience.

The Science of Serendipity: Why It Matters

Serendipity, at its core, is about making discoveries—often valuable or pleasant things—when you least expect them. It’s not just a matter of good fortune but a practice rooted in openness and curiosity. The science of serendipity reveals that staying attuned to the moment enhances your ability to recognize opportunities others might overlook.

For instance, neuroscience shows that unexpected connections can ignite creativity, forming new pathways in the brain that lead to innovation. Whether it’s a serendipitous discovery during a chance conversation or finding valuable insight at a networking event, staying curious can transform the mundane into the meaningful.

How We Can Use Serendipity to Boost Our Businesses

By treating serendipity as a skill—requiring preparation, observation, and intentionality—you can create more opportunities for making discoveries that are meaningful yet unexpected. In a business context, this might mean being open to spontaneous collaborations, engaging in conversations without rigid agendas, or exploring spaces outside your usual circles.

Beitman’s idea of a human GPS suggests that by moving through the world with curiosity and purpose, you naturally position yourself to encounter the people, ideas, or opportunities that can catalyze growth in your work. This approach turns networking and creative exploration into fertile ground for serendipitous breakthroughs.

Actionable Tip: Practice mindfulness this week by pausing to notice your surroundings and being fully present in conversations—you never know what moments of serendipity might arise.

Cultivating a Serendipity Mindset

Shifting from rigid planning to a serendipity-friendly mindset means embracing the unexpected. Think of serendipity not as luck but as an approach to life where openness, flexibility, and curiosity guide your actions.

Networking events, for example, can feel daunting, but by focusing on being approachable and genuinely interested in others, you create space for meaningful, serendipitous moments to emerge. Remember the Persian fairy tale of the three princes—heroes who navigated life’s challenges by observing their surroundings with curiosity.

The same principle applies: even small talk can lead to big collaborations.

Actionable Tip: At your next event, start a conversation without an agenda. Simply ask a thoughtful question and see where the moment takes you.

Practical Ways to Create More Opportunities for Serendipity

Serendipity can fill empty space when you step out of your usual routine. Whether attending a conference, joining a new co-working space, or saying yes to an unexpected invitation, exposing yourself to diverse environments increases the chances of fortunate discoveries. But don’t ignore your part in this!

Equally important is following up—a friendly message or email can turn a casual encounter into a lasting connection. Digital tools like Instagram and LinkedIn help keep these relationships alive, while collaborating with people outside your field sparks creative synergy. Serendipity, after all, is about finding valuable opportunities where you least expect them.

Actionable Tip: Commit to sending one friendly follow-up email this week to a person you recently met, turning a pleasant moment into a potential collaboration.

Navigating the Challenges: When Networking Feels Taxing

Networking can be draining, especially for introverts or those balancing busy lives, but it doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The key is finding balance—saying yes to serendipity without sacrificing your energy.

Approach low-pressure opportunities, like coffee breaks or solo walks, as perfect moments to observe and connect. Remember that networking isn’t about being everywhere at once; it’s about making meaningful connections in the right spaces. Even a quiet site or small gathering can lead to pure serendipity, making the process feel more manageable.

Actionable Tip: Choose one low-stakes networking event this month to attend with curiosity, focusing on enjoying the experience rather than forcing outcomes.

Final Thoughts: Serendipity as Your New Creative Superpower

Whether you’re finding pleasant things by accident or making deliberate discoveries through observation, serendipity adds depth to your life and work. It’s not a matter of luck but a mindset and practice. As you navigate your own quest, remember that your next moment of inspiration might be closer than you think.

Sources Referenced in This Article

• Beitman, B. D. (2016, August 14). The True Meaning of Serendipity and Coincidence. Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/intl/blog/connecting-coincidence/201608/the-true-meaning-serendipity-and-coincidence