“Every day is a new day. It is better to be lucky. But I would rather be exact. Then when luck comes you are ready.”

This line from 'The Old Man and the Sea' explores the relationship between preparation and opportunity, suggesting that 'luck' is often the intersection of the two. While acknowledging that some factors are beyond our control, Hemingway emphasizes the importance of precision and readiness in one's craft. In the competitive worlds of finance, sports, and tech, this serves as a reminder that consistency and attention to detail are what allow us to capitalize on breakthroughs. People relate to this because it offers a sense of agency in an uncertain world, focusing on what can be mastered. Hemingway’s meticulous editing and dedication to his writing schedule reflect this preference for being 'exact.' Maintaining high standards ensures that when the right moment arrives, we are capable of seizing it.