Many people are superstitious and will go to extreme lengths to avoid doing something they feel will bring them bad luck. People will walk around ladders, rather than go under them. Maybe there is some good sense in this; for example, if someone is painting, some paint or worse (the painter)may fall on the person beneath the ladder.

If a black cat crosses your path it is suggested by some, that it is unlucky.This was because in the past, witches were thought to turn themselves into cats. People who believed this did not want a witch crossing their path, for fear of her casting a spell on them. People have been known to take drastic action if this has happened to them, like going home rather than carrying on to work.

Some people worry that if they break a mirror they will have seven years bad luck. Others suggest the number 13 is unlucky, this superstition is so widely believed that some architects and hoteliers miss out the number 13 and replace it with 12b instead.

Another widely held belief, is that Friday the thirteenth is unlucky. Some people stay inside all day, as they do not want to tempt fate. Some lesser superstitions include, throwing a pinch of salt over their shoulders if they spill salt, as this is said to ward off the devil.

As children some of us sang the song with the words. “step on a crack break your mothers back” You can often see young children going to great lengths to avoid stepping on cracks in the pavement. After all, they do not want to hurt their mothers who they love dearly.

Many superstitions are learned in childhood or from family/other adults. Sometimes we carry these into adulthood, or perhaps, don’t really believe them but just in case, do not want to tempt fate.

Often when people talk of their troubles, others will say they come in three’s. Some say you get three bad things and then three good. Famous people are known to be superstitious one of the most famous one’s is; Don’t say good luck to performers in a show/play instead they say break a leg.

Not all superstitions are unlucky, for example; Many celebrities have lucky charms they argue bring them good luck. Others say if you wish upon a shooting star your wish will come true. Lots of people have a certain number they suggest is lucky for them. Most of us remember the pot of gold that can be found under the rainbow.

Yes, superstitions can have far reaching effects on some peoples lives. There are schools of thought that would argue it is because of the mental energy put into these negative/positive thoughts, that bad/good luck occurs. If you believe your thoughts become your reality, this theory would certainly fit. In terms of bad luck we cannot afford to live our lives in fear. In the case of good luck i.e. lucky numbers, it is great when people win on the lottery etc. However, spiritually minded people would argue at everything in our lives is a opportunity for us to learn something; that in the midst of our mistakes there is wisdom; and that we have the power to control our own destiny and the only thing we need to do, is believe it!