I think luck is the sense to recognize an opportunity and the ability to take advantage of it... The man who can smile at his breaks and grab his chances gets on.

In this quote, Samuel Goldwyn highlights the idea that luck is not purely about chance but about the awareness to recognize opportunities and the skill to act on them. He suggests that luck isn't something that simply happens to you; rather, it's about how you perceive and seize opportunities when they arise. Those who are able to identify and capitalize on their circumstances are the ones who ultimately succeed.

Goldwyn’s message emphasizes the importance of timing and decisiveness. Simply put, it’s not enough to wait for opportunities to fall into your lap. A key component of luck is having the ability to recognize the right moment and then having the courage and confidence to grab that chance. The idea of being able to smile at your breaks suggests maintaining a positive outlook, no matter the situation.

The origin of this quote can be traced to Goldwyn’s own experiences as a film producer and founder of MGM Studios. Throughout his career, Goldwyn believed that success in the entertainment industry, or in life in general, came down to making the most of the breaks you are given. His own career was marked by a mixture of timing, intuition, and the willingness to take risks and capitalize on opportunities that others might have missed.

Ultimately, Goldwyn’s perspective on luck is a reminder that it’s not about waiting for good things to happen but about being prepared and open to the opportunities that come your way. Those who can adapt, take risks, and maintain a positive attitude are the ones most likely to thrive, regardless of external circumstances.