Playing the lottery may feel like chasing a dream, but one expert says a simple mindset shift can turn every ticket into a win—even without hitting the jackpot.
Tim Chartier, a mathematics and computer science professor at Davidson College, has revealed a straightforward nine-word rule to improve how people approach the lottery. In an interview with The U.S. Sun, arranged by casino.ca, Chartier explained how players can enhance their experience with one guiding principle: “Make a budget, stick to it, and have fun!”
While the odds of winning a massive prize—such as Powerball or Mega Millions—are astronomically low (about one in 300 million), Chartier believes understanding the purpose of playing is key. “You may end up winning—even a lot,” he said. “But if you go into it for entertainment, you win, regardless.”
Recent headline-grabbing wins include Edwin Castro’s $2.04 billion Powerball prize in 2022 and Rosemary Casarotti’s $1.2 billion Mega Millions jackpot in 2023. These rare wins fuel hope, but Chartier encourages players to stay grounded.
Lottery sales in the U.S. hit over $105 billion in 2024 and are expected to rise to more than $194 billion by 2025. With so much money spent on tickets each year, Chartier’s advice offers a reminder: keep expectations realistic and enjoy the game within your means.
