Check out our March newsletter!
Is Luck Real? The Surprising Science Behind ‘Good Fortune’
Some people just seem lucky. They win, meet the right people, and get great opportunities. But is luck really a mysterious force, or is there more to the story? Scientists say luck is not just random chance. While chance does play a role in life, research shows our attitude, habits, and preparation strongly shape what we call “good luck.” The Power of Optimism Optimistic people believe good things will happen. They don’t ignore problems; they just expect positive outcomes and look for solutions. Studies show that optimistic people notice more opportunities because they pay attention to them. For example, imagine two people see the same job posting. The pessimist thinks, “I’ll never get it,” and scrolls past. The optimist thinks, “Why not?” and applies. The optimist didn’t get lucky; they created opportunity by believing in the possibility. Preparation Creates Opportunity There’s an old saying: “Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity.” When people build skills,
learn new things, and stay ready, they’re more likely to take advantage of opportunities. Think of a student who studies regularly. Faced with a pop quiz, they do well. It may seem like luck, but the real reason is preparation. The same idea applies to work, home, and life. Habits Attracting ‘Good Fortune’ Lucky people often share habits. They talk to new people, try new things, and keep an open mind. This increases the number of chances that come their way. The more people you meet and things you try, the more doors can open. They don’t give up easily. To them, adverse outcomes are lessons, not failures. This resilient mindset keeps them from quitting. Finally, and maybe most importantly, lucky people work hard. In my career, I’ve earned many solid legal outcomes that prove the old adage: “The harder you work, the luckier you get.” Which, by the way, is a great song by the band American Aquarium. The Role of Random Chance Chance still exists. We can’t control everything. But we can control how we respond. When good things happen, lucky people celebrate. When bad things happen, they learn and try again. Make Your Own Luck So, is luck real? Yes, but not in the way we usually think. “Lucky” people are not waiting for magic. They are staying positive, preparing for success, and building habits that create opportunities. This March, try making your own luck. Stay open-minded, keep learning, work hard, and take informed, calculated risks. You may be surprised how often good fortune finds you. If you’re looking for luck in a family court or injury case, we’re here to inform you and work to enhance your prospects.
Do a good deed! Be part of a solution! We’re here for you and your family and friends to answer questions about these cases:
• Wrongful death • Serious accident injuries • Work injuries
• Family law (consultation fee required. We’ll explain when you call.)
Give the gift of peace of mind, and make sure callers tell us you sent them so we can thank you! Call 864.898.6458.
864.582.0416
New Worlds, New Romances, New Thrills
THE BOOKS MAKING WAVES IN 2026
Romance and Contemporary Vibes “The Night We Met” (Book 2 in the “Say You’ll Remember Me” series) by Abby Jimenez: This one sounds like a feel‑good romance with humor, realistic struggles, and the messy, beautiful
This year is shaping up to be a thrilling one for book lovers, with a lineup of releases that promises everything from heart-pounding thrillers and epic fantasy sagas to swoon-worthy romances and inventive speculative fiction. Whether you’re a longtime fan eagerly awaiting sequels to your favorite series or you’re hunting for fresh voices and new adventures, there’s something on the horizon for every reader. The best part is that some of these have already hit the shelves! Magic and Epic Fantasy “The Ballad of Falling Dragons” by Sarah A. Parker: The highly anticipated sequel to “When the Moon Hatched,” this continuation promises more danger, magic, romance, and dragons. If you loved the first installment’s heady blend of myth and emotion, this will likely pull you back into its world. Release Date: April 28, 2026 “Burn of the Everflame” (“Kindred’s Curse,” Book 4) by Penn Cole: War looms, alliances are fragile, and enemies threaten extinction. For fans of sweeping fantasy sagas with high stakes and heartbreak, this feels like a true epic. Release Date: July 14, 2026 “Red God” (“Red Rising Saga,” Book 7) by Pierce Brown: This is the next chapter in an intense sci‑fi/fantasy saga. If you crave dystopian worlds, political tension, and cosmic-scale stakes, this might be your jam! Release Date: Summer 2026
unpredictability of relationships. Release Date: March 31, 2026
“And Now, Back to You” (“Heartstrings,” Book 2) by B.K. Borison: In this “when‑opposites‑attract” story, two meteorologists are thrown together by circumstance. You can expect tension, banter, and a romance that builds under pressure. Release Date: Feb. 24, 2026
Thrillers and Mystery “The Astral Library” by Kate Quinn: For readers who love a dash of mystery and intrigue mixed with imaginative or historical elements, this one feels like a story where secrets lurk among dusty shelves and old volumes. Release Date: Feb. 17, 2026 “Victorious” (“Villains,” Book 3) by V.E. Schwab: If you enjoy morally gray characters, tension, and stories that don’t promise neat fairy‑tale endings, this could be a darkly compelling pick. Release Date: Jan. 1, 2026
CLIENT TESTIMONIALS “I would like to start by saying that it was a pleasure being cared for by true professionals. Rob, Rose, and their entire team were outstanding in every aspect. They patiently answered all the questions my husband, my son, and I had regarding our car accident case. “The case was resolved positively, and we truly cannot thank them enough. If you ever face a difficult situation and need a professional, compassionate legal team, do not hesitate to call them. We will definitely remember and recommend them.”
–K.S.
“Robert Usry was very pleasant to speak to. Full of energy, kind, knowledgeable, and understanding. I needed general information on a case, and he was more than happy to assist and advise me. He will be getting my business for sure!”
–Alisa Twitty
Past outcomes don’t guarantee future results. Every case is different, and all cases depend on unique facts and laws.
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How We Secured Lifetime Benefits for an Injured Driver WHEN WORKERS’ COMP SAYS NO
Many people assume a South Carolina workers’ compensation insurance carrier will do the right thing after a serious workplace injury. Unfortunately, that is rarely the case, as one Spartanburg client learned through painful experience. Our client was working as a FedEx delivery driver when her vehicle was rear-ended on the driver’s side while making a left turn on U.S. Highway 221 in Spartanburg County by a drunk, speeding driver fleeing police. The crash caused serious spinal injuries, including a severe neck injury that required surgery to remove a herniated disc and fuse part of her cervical spine with a metal plate and screws, as well as a disc injury to her lower back that left her with lasting pain and limitations. The legal case was especially complicated because it involved a workers’ compensation claim and a third-party lawsuit. In addition to pursuing benefits through workers’ compensation, we filed a claim
against the drunk driver to seek additional compensation, including recovery under an underinsured motorist (UIM) coverage. The neurosurgeon assigned permanent impairment ratings of 80% to her cervical spine and 26% to her lumbar spine, but the insurer still denied prescribed chronic pain treatment. Rob challenged the denial and requested a hearing before a Workers’ Compensation Commissioner. At the hearing, the insurer claimed it no longer owed treatment because the client had reached maximum medical improvement. Rob pointed to South Carolina law allowing continued care when it improves quality of life and pain management, and the Commissioner agreed, ordering the insurer to provide the treatment and pay the hearing costs. Ultimately, we argued that our client met the legal definition of permanent and total disability. She had lost more than 50% use of her back and suffered injuries to her shoulder and left leg, along with depression and the need for long-term
pain management. The insurer continued to dispute the claim, forcing the matter to a final hearing. Rob presented testimony and evidence, including a comprehensive evaluation from a vocational expert who reviewed the client’s medical records and concluded she was no longer capable of maintaining employment due to her injuries. After considering all the evidence, the Commissioner ruled in our client’s favor, finding her permanently and totally disabled. As a result, she was awarded lifetime medical care related to the accident and the maximum disability benefits available under South Carolina law, 500 weeks of compensation, valued at $158,301.13 at the time of the ruling.
*Past outcomes don’t guarantee future results. Every case is different, and all cases depend on unique facts and laws.
Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai
Directions 1. In small bowl, combine sauce ingredients; set aside. 2. Using vegetable spiralizer, cut zucchini into noodles. 3. Heat large pan on medium-high heat. Add 1 tbsp olive oil (reserve the other half). 4. Add zucchini noodles; cook for 2–3 minutes. 5. Let noodles rest for about 3 minutes. Remove noodles, drain, then reheat pan. 6. Add remaining olive oil and garlic; cook 30 seconds. 7. Add shrimp; cook 3 minutes. 8. Add bell peppers and green onions; cook 1–2 minutes. 9. Add egg and stir until cooked. 10.Add back zucchini noodles, then add sauce, and cook for 1 minute. Then add bean sprouts. 11.Serve, garnishing with roasted peanuts, cilantro, and lime wedges as desired.
“Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” –Galatians 6:9 “Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” –Matthew 5:16 Good News
Ingredients
Pad Thai • 2 medium zucchini • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided • 1/2 lb peeled and deveined shrimp • 3 cloves garlic, minced • 1/2 red bell pepper • 3 green onions • 1 large egg • 2 cups bean sprouts • 1/3 cup roasted peanuts • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional) • Lime wedges (optional) Sauce
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar • 2 tbsp fish sauce • 3 tbsp ketchup
• 1 tsp packed brown sugar • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper • 1 tsp chili garlic sauce
864.582.0416
Inspired by WhiteOnRiceCouple.com
* This newsletter is intended to educate the public about personal injury, workers’ compensation, criminal defense, and family law issues. You can copy and distribute it as long as you copy the entire newsletter. But the newsletter is not intended to be legal advice; you should ask a lawyer about your specific case. Every case is different, and all case outcomes depend on unique facts and laws.
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INSIDE this issue 1. Think You’re Unlucky? Research Says You Can Change That 2. 7 Must-Read Books Already Defining 2026 Client Testimonials 3. Fighting Back After a Serious Workplace Injury Pays Off Zucchini Noodle Pad Thai 4. The Productivity Upgrade You Didn’t Know You Needed
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If you no longer want to receive this newsletter, call Pam at 864.582.0416 or email Rob@bhollandlawfirm.com . STOP TRYING TO HUSTLE HARDER PLAN SMARTER INSTEAD
Do you ever wish you could accomplish more in a day? Whether you’re trying to squeeze out as many tasks as possible at work or take care of all of your chores before Sunday, it can feel like you’re always trying to maximize your productivity. But many of us feel like we fall short each day.
the following day. Before the weekend starts, figure out which chores you need to do and the best time to tackle them. Having a plan will increase your likelihood of sticking to it.
Stop saying yes. How often do you say “no” to others? Many of us are people pleasers who often agree to requests, even if they exceed our capacity. Saying “yes” all the time will lead to burnout, regardless of whether it’s your boss asking you to complete a project before noon or your friends wanting to go out for the fourth night in a row. Say no, and keep your main priorities at the forefront of your mind. Take regular breaks. You may want to push through all your tasks so you can finally unwind and relax, but this could lengthen the process. Sticking to your responsibilities like glue prevents your body and brain from taking necessary breaks to recalibrate and reset so you can operate at peak performance.
You may think you just need to regularly refresh your coffee or eliminate every distraction from your mind to improve your productivity, but this only gets you so far. Instead, focus on incorporating strong, simple strategies into your routine. Here are three ideas to help you be as productive as possible, no matter the situation. Put a plan in place. When do you start thinking about what you need to accomplish on any given day? Too often, people wait until they face their work computer or stare at a sink full of dishes to strategize their day. Instead, take some time before you wrap up work to establish your priorities for
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