When a Lie Becomes a Launchpad
We love success stories. The rags-to-riches tales, the bold entrepreneurs who beat the odds, and the visionary artists who redefine possibility. But sometimes, the path to success isn’t paved with pure truth it’s sprinkled with superstition, self-deception, and even outright lies. Welcome to the fascinating world of success stories based on a lie like a lucky charm that shouldn’t work, but somehow does.
In this article, we’re diving deep into real-life examples where success was ignited by false beliefs, lucky charms, placebo effects, or fabricated narratives. You’ll explore how psychology, confidence, and the human need for belief can turn a falsehood into fuel. By the end, you’ll gain a fresh perspective on the power of belief and how even a lie, if used wisely, can spark something extraordinary.
1. The Placebo Effect of Confidence: The Michael Jordan Shorts Myth
Let’s kick things off with one of the most legendary athletes of all time Michael Jordan. According to NBA folklore, MJ wore his University of North Carolina (UNC) shorts under his Chicago Bulls uniform for good luck. Whether this was entirely true or partly exaggerated, the belief in the lucky shorts became part of his mental edge.
This symbolic ritual, whether factual or not, created a psychological boost that made Jordan feel connected to his roots and invincible on the court. Sports psychologists suggest that such superstitions serve as mental anchors that reduce anxiety and improve performance.
Takeaway: Belief even in something irrational can sharpen your focus and amplify your confidence.
2. “Fake It Till You Make It”: The Story of Anna Delvey
Anna Sorokin, aka Anna Delvey, is infamous for posing as a wealthy German heiress to infiltrate New York’s elite social scene. Her story, though ultimately exposed, is a remarkable demonstration of how powerful a well-spun lie can be.
She secured hotel stays, private jets, and meetings with financiers all based on a fabricated identity. For a while, it worked. Her confidence, presentation, and ability to play the part created a bubble of credibility.
Takeaway: While unethical in execution, Anna’s case shows how appearance and belief in your own narrative can manipulate perception and open doors. In a less deceptive context, this principle fuels many startup founders who pitch bold visions before having a product.
3. The Lucky Charm That Built an Empire: Walt Disney’s Pencil
Walt Disney was known for his incredible imagination and belief in dreams. But few know about his superstition involving a specific pencil. He believed this pencil brought him creativity and clarity.
There’s no magical graphite in any pencil, of course. But Walt’s belief in this object helped him enter a creative mindset like a switch that triggered his best ideas. From Mickey Mouse to Disneyland, this mindset was instrumental.
Takeaway: Rituals, even irrational ones, can serve as mental cues that unlock performance and creativity.
4. The Startup Based on a Nonexistent Product: Dropbox’s MVP Video
When Dropbox co-founder Drew Houston wanted to validate his startup idea, he didn’t build the product first. Instead, he created a simple explainer video that demonstrated how the (nonexistent) software would work. He shared it with early adopters and the signups poured in.
In truth, the product didn’t yet exist in usable form. But the video was so compelling and convincing that people believed in it. This created momentum, investor interest, and eventually the real Dropbox.
Takeaway: Sometimes, a compelling story is all you need to test a market or inspire belief. Belief precedes reality.
5. The Fortune Cookie Fortune That Changed a Life
A viral story from the early 2000s tells of a man who received a fortune cookie with the message: “You will find great wealth soon.” Taking it to heart, he decided to quit his dead-end job and pursue an invention idea he had shelved for years.
The idea turned into a multi-million-dollar business. Was it the cookie? Of course not. But it gave him the push, the validation, the nudge he needed. It was a lie but a productive one.
Takeaway: Sometimes, what we need is not truth, but permission to act. Lies that empower can be catalysts.
6. The Lie of the “Born Genius”: Thomas Edison’s Mother’s Deception
When Thomas Edison was a child, he was reportedly sent home from school with a note saying he was “addled” and unteachable. His mother told him the note said he was brilliant and that the school wasn’t good enough for him. She homeschooled him and nurtured his curiosity.
Years later, Edison found the letter and realized the truth. But by then, the lie had already done its work: he believed he was exceptional and acted accordingly.
Takeaway: The stories we are told and tell ourselves shape our reality. Sometimes, a kind lie can change the course of a life.
7. The Fiction That Raised Millions: The Story of Elizabeth Holmes and Theranos
Elizabeth Holmes promised revolutionary blood-testing technology with Theranos. While her story ended in scandal and conviction, it’s crucial to understand why so many investors believed her: she embodied confidence, vision, and the persuasive allure of the next Steve Jobs.
Though deeply unethical, her case is an extreme example of how belief backed by storytelling can override due diligence. Investors bought into the narrative before they saw the evidence.
Takeaway: A strong story can be more powerful than facts. Use this responsibly.
Why Lies Sometimes Work: The Psychology Behind It
There’s a psychological term for this: self-fulfilling prophecy. When you believe something strongly especially with supporting rituals or narratives you often behave in ways that make it come true. Superstitions, placebos, or even small lies create focus, reduce hesitation, and raise confidence.
According to a 2018 study from Stanford University, people who believe they’re lucky tend to take more chances and persevere longer. It’s not the luck it’s the behavior driven by belief that changes outcomes.
Harnessing the Power of Belief (Without Losing Integrity)
Let’s be clear: lying your way to success isn’t a sustainable or ethical strategy. But leveraging belief, confidence, and mental rituals even irrational ones can be powerful.
Here’s how to use this energy constructively:
- Create a success ritual: Invent a personal lucky charm or routine that boosts your mindset.
- Tell yourself a powerful story: Frame your identity in a way that motivates action and resilience.
- Visualize outcomes: Even if they’re not real yet, seeing success vividly can guide your behavior.
- Anchor yourself with symbols: Use objects, mantras, or images that cue a successful state of mind.
When Belief Becomes a Superpower
Not all success stories begin with truth. Sometimes, a lie, a charm, or a fictionalized version of reality is enough to spark something real. From Michael Jordan’s lucky shorts to Thomas Edison’s mother’s encouragement, belief however it starts can fuel extraordinary achievements.
So, whether it’s a pencil, a fortune cookie, or a story you tell yourself, remember this: what matters most is not whether it’s true, but whether it helps you act. Harness the power of belief, ground it in integrity, and let it move you forward.
Have you ever used a lucky charm or told yourself a little lie to boost confidence? Share your story in the comments below and pass this article along to someone who could use a bit of motivation and magic today.