If you’re looking for a simple way to improve your odds of winning the lottery, there are some basic tips that you can follow. These tips range from choosing numbers that are not consecutive to making sure that the sum of your numbers falls between 104 and 176, as 70% of jackpots have this total.
1. Pick Your Own Numbers
When it comes to the lottery, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. One of the most important things is picking your own numbers. There are some people who swear by certain numbers, while others use their birthdays or other meaningful dates as lucky numbers.
According to Richard Lustig, a lottery winner, there are some simple steps you can take to improve your chances of winning. He suggests diversifying your number selections and avoiding numbers that are close together or end with the same digit.
2. Don’t Go for Quick Pick
It’s four times more likely that you will be struck by lightning than win the Illinois lottery. But that doesn’t mean that you can’t increase your chances of winning by using the right strategy.
One of the best ways to improve your odds is to avoid Quick Pick. It is a common misconception that Quick Pick tickets are more likely to win, but this is simply not true. It is also important to avoid choosing consecutive numbers, as this will only decrease your chances. Instead, try choosing random numbers that are not close together so that other players will be less likely to choose them as well.
3. Don’t Forget About the Odds
A lot of people play the lottery for money. This is a big gamble, though, and there’s no guarantee that you’ll win.
You can still improve your chances by playing different games and following certain strategies. Richard explains how in this video.
Many people get caught up in the euphoria of winning the lottery and end up blowing it all on extravagant purchases or even worse, getting sued for their winnings. It is best to remember that gambling has ruined the lives of many and that you should always keep your money under control.
4. Don’t Forget About the Taxes
As we all know, the IRS will want their piece of the pie if you win the lottery. So, it is best to get a tax pro involved early on in your planning process.
He or she can help you determine how to receive your winnings, such as in a lump sum or an annuity payment. They can also advise you on investment options that will provide a good return and minimize your tax bill.
A lot of lottery winners end up losing their wealth by buying huge houses and cars, or by squandering it on poor investments. A smarter move would be to use your winnings to help others. This is not only the right thing to do, but it will also make you happier in the long run.
5. Don’t Go to the Extreme
Many people fantasize about winning the lottery. But what really happens if you do win? According to financial expert Stephan Desbiens, the sudden influx of money can be paralyzing.
He recommends taking a breather and letting the euphoria fade before making any rash decisions. This will give you a clearer head to think about the future and make wiser choices.
He also cautions against attracting attention to your newfound wealth by flaunting it. Doing so can not only alienate those closest to you, but also draw the attention of shady characters who may try to take your prize.
6. Don’t Tell Anyone
You’re four times more likely to be struck by lightning than to win the lottery, but that doesn’t stop people from trying to hack the system. Stefan Mandel, a Romanian-Australian economist, claims to have developed a formula that’s allowed him to win the lottery 14 times.
But it’s important to keep quiet about your lottery winnings if you want to maintain your privacy. A new survey from Play Pennsylvania found that 83 percent of people would never tell anyone, even their closest family members, about their jackpot wins.
7. Don’t Overspend
It is important to avoid overspending, especially when it comes to lottery tickets. Remember that lottery tickets should only be purchased out of your discretionary spending — the money left over after paying essentials like food, shelter and clothing.
Lustig warns against using rent or grocery money to buy tickets, which can lead to financial disaster in the event that you don’t win. He also recommends entering lottery pools, which can improve your odds without increasing your cost of entry.
Regardless of whether you’re playing for the big jackpot or just enjoy playing, it is important to follow these tips. By doing so, you can increase your chances of winning and help avoid the “lottery curse”!