Know the Facts, Enjoy the Fun!

September is Responsible Gambling Education Month, and the Lottery wants to help you keep play fun! Join us in debunking some commonly believed gambling myths:

Have you ever caught yourself thinking, “I’m due for a win,” or “That number has to come up soon”? You’re not alone.

Our brains naturally look for patterns, even in games of pure chance. Understanding how Lottery games really work can help you make informed decisions and keep Lottery play fun and enjoyable.

Let’s separate a few common myths from the facts.

Myth #1: “I’m Due for a Win.”

The Fact: Previous results don’t influence future outcomes.

A string of losses can make it feel like a win is due. In reality, whether you’re playing a Scratch game or a draw game, each play is independent and previous results don’t influence what happens next. Let’s keep each play a fun one! 

Myth #2: “There’s a Strategy That Can Guarantee a Win.”

The Fact: Lottery games are based on chance, not strategy.

You may have come across tips or “winning formulas” that claim to improve your chances. While it can be fun to choose numbers a certain way or follow personal traditions, Lottery games are random. No strategy or system can guarantee a winning outcome.

Myth #3: “Lottery games are a way to make money.”

The Fact: Lottery games are designed for entertainment.

Lottery games are designed to add a little fun and excitement to your day, but they should never serve as a financial plan. Keeping the focus on fun and maintaining realistic expectations can help you enjoy the experience, rather than putting pressure on the outcome.

Remember: Play for the fun of it, not the payout.

Myth #4: “I Was So Close. My Next Play Could Be the Winner.”

The Fact: Every Lottery play has its own outcome.

A near miss can make it seem like a win is getting closer, but each Lottery play is separate from the last. Whether you’re playing a draw game or a Scratch ticket, every outcome is determined independently.

Myth #5: “Lucky Numbers Win More Often.”

The Fact: Every number has the same chance of being selected.

Whether you choose birthdays, anniversaries, favorite numbers, or stick with Quick Pick, your choice of numbers doesn’t change your odds.

If playing your lucky numbers is part of the fun, go for it! Just remember that every number has an equal chance of being drawn.

Keeping Play Positive

One of the easiest ways to enjoy lottery games is to play with a plan.

Consider these simple habits:

• Set a spending limit before you buy your tickets.

• Decide how much time you want to spend playing.

• Never chase losses by spending more than you planned.

• Celebrate wins, but remember they are never guaranteed.

• Take breaks whenever you feel like play is becoming more stressful than fun.

The Colorado Lottery encourages players to make informed decisions and keep play enjoyable. When you understand how games of chance work, it’s easier to focus on what matters most: having fun while playing responsibly.

Curious about your own play habits? Visit the Colorado Lottery’s Know Your Limits page to explore responsible play resources, take the Positive Play Quiz, and find tools designed to help you keep Lottery play entertaining.

Free, confidential help is available 24/7 through the National Problem Gambling Helpline:

• Call or text: 1-800-MY-RESET

• Chat: NCPGambling.org/chat