It never hurts to have a little luck on your side, right?
Even if you consider yourself a die-hard skeptic, you've probably indulged in an occasional good luck ritual of your own.
They say superstitions are irrational beliefs in supernatural influences. But if most Canadians say they're superstitious, does that make most Canadians irrational?
The truth is superstitious behavior can help us feel more confident and more in control over our lives. It boils down to us feeling safe, and if you are in the majority, the number 13, black cats, breaking mirrors, or walking under ladders, may just be some of the things you actively avoid.
There are tons of superstitions — a lucky penny, crossing your fingers, not washing your jersey until your hockey team is in the playoffs. But which superstitions are most common?
Below is a list of the most common superstitions based on a recent survey. How many of these do you believe in?
Bad Luck
Friday the 13th is an unlucky day.
Walking under a ladder.
Breaking a mirror bring bad luck.
Opening an umbrella inside.
The number 13 in general is considered unlucky.
Bad news comes in threes.
If your ears are burning, it means someone is talking bad about you.
If a black cat runs in front of you, you will have bad luck for the day.
Don't leave your hat on a bed - it'll bring you bad luck.
Good Luck
An itchy palm means you will have a good day.
If you carry around the foot of a dead rabbit, you will have good luck.
Finding a horseshoe is considered good luck.
Knocking twice on wood helps fend off bad omens.
Tossing spilled salt over your shoulder will bring you good luck.
Finding a four-leaf clover will bring you good luck.
Wishing on shooting stars will make a wish come true.
Crossing your fingers will increase your luck.
Find a penny, pick it up: All day long, you'll have good luck!
Try out a new sport or game to experience the most success.
Whoever cracks the bigger piece of the turkey wishbone will have his wish come true.
If you look at a clock when it is 11:11 and make a wish, it will come true.
A horseshoe hung with the ends pointing upward will collect good luck.
