Does wishing someone ‘good luck’ or ‘success’ really help?

Does wishing someone ‘good luck’ or ‘success’ really help?

Yes, says the text Vasantarajashakunam.

गच्छेति पृष्ठे पुरतस्तथैहि वागीदृशी केनचिदुच्यमाना ॥ 

सर्वाशिषश्चातिशयेन तेभ्यश्चित्तस्य तुष्ट्यर्थजयाय पुंसाम् ॥ 

सिद्धयै विरावा जहि छिंधि भिधि चेत्यादयः शत्रुवधोद्यतानाम्॥ 

क्व यासि मा गच्छ तथैवमाद्याः प्रयोजनारंभनिवारणार्थः ॥

When you are going for something, if someone speaks encouraging words, it contributes to its accomplishment.

Example: A football team is getting into the ground for a match. Cheers like ‘crush them’, ‘wipe them out’ can contribute to their victory.

At the same time, negative words like ‘do you think it will help?’, ‘why are you going there’ can affect the outcome negatively.

The same principle applies when you wish someone ‘good luck’ or ‘success’.

This effect can be understood through several interconnected principles involving intention, and interconnectedness.

1. Words as Expressions of Intent

Words are powerful carriers of our intentions. When you verbalize a wish for someone's success, you're not just uttering sounds - you're expressing a deliberate intent for their well-being.

Manifestation of Intentions: The act of expressing positive intentions can help manifest desired outcomes. This concept is rooted in the idea that our thoughts and words can influence reality.

2. The Interconnectedness of Everything

The principle that all elements of the universe are interconnected suggests that our words can have far-reaching effects beyond immediate perception.

Energy Transfer: Positive words carry positive energy, influencing not just the individual but the environment.

Collective Consciousness: By contributing positive intentions into the world, you are influencing the collective mindset, which can have a ripple effect on outcomes.

3. Mantras and Blessings in the Vedas

Spiritual tradition  emphasizes the power of words and intentions.

Vedic Mantras: In the Vedas, mantras are chanted to invoke blessings, protection, and success. This is based on the principle that spoken words, infused with intent, can impact reality.

Blessings and Rituals: Such traditions highlight how verbal expressions are used to bring about positive changes, reinforcing the belief in the transformative power of words.

4. Additional Perspectives

Psychological Boost and Confidence Enhancement

When someone receives words of encouragement or well-wishes, it can significantly boost their self-confidence. This heightened confidence can lead to:

• Improved Performance: Believing in one's abilities can enhance focus and efficiency, leading to better outcomes.
• Increased Motivation: Encouraging words can reignite a person's passion and determination to achieve their goals.
• Reduced Anxiety: Positive reinforcement can alleviate stress and nervousness, which often hinder performance.

Social Support and Validation

Receiving support from others validates one's efforts and goals. This social backing can:

• Strengthen Resolve: Knowing others believe in them can encourage individuals to persevere through challenges.
• Enhance Well-being: Positive social interactions contribute to overall happiness and mental health, which can indirectly improve performance.

Negative Words Can Have Opposite Effects

Just as positive words can uplift, negative comments can undermine confidence and motivation:

• Self-Doubt: Criticism or skepticism can cause individuals to question their abilities.
• Increased Stress: Negative feedback can heighten anxiety, leading to decreased performance.
• Demotivation: Lack of support might make individuals less inclined to put in effort.

Ramaswamy Sastry and Vighnesh Ghanapaathi