What It’s Like to Win the Lottery: Insights From Lottery Winners!

Millions of people dream of being the jackpot every week. But what does it really mean to win the lottery? Does everything all of a sudden work out perfectly, or are there unforeseen hiccups? We’ve compiled advice from real-life Mega Millions winners who weighed in with their personal experiences — the good, the bad and everything in between.

From a Dream to Reality: The Gold Medal Moment

For many Mega Millions winners, their moment of realization was surreal. One winner who lives in New Jersey said he checked the numbers three times before it sank in. One in California said he assumed it was a gag. “You dream about it, but you never think that it’ll happen to you,” he said.

That initial shock is typical, but when it wears off, winners confront the choice of a lifetime: lump sum or annuity payments. The majority choose the lump sum, eager to gain control of their newfound wealth in real time.

Financial Planning Is Key

Amid the excitement, all the winners we spoke to stressed the need for financial planning. A Georgia couple explained to us that they hired a team of advisers — lawyers, accountants and financial planners — even before they claimed their prize. “We knew the media attention was to follow. We wanted to remain anonymous and play it smart,” they said.

All of these winners emphasized one thing: If you win the lottery, take your time. First, breathe, get guidance, prepare. Many winners who didn't do this said they later regretted spending decisions made too early or trust extended too freely to friends or family.

Grounded After the Jackpot

Although coming into money can be exhilarating, it also introduces pressure. “I had people come out of the woodwork,” one Florida winner said. “Old friends, remote relatives, people we hadn’t seen for years — they all wanted something.” For many, the most difficult lesson was how to say no.

Others donated their winnings to a good cause. One winner in North Carolina established a scholarship for underprivileged children, while the other built a community center in his home town. “I wanted to have a role giving back,” he said. “It gave me that power, winning the Mega Millions.”

What They Wish They’d Known Ahead of Winning

When asked what advice they’d have for future winners, several repeated the same sentiment:

What to do instead: Don’t leave your job immediately.

Keep your circle small.

No extravagant spending during your first year.

Get everything in writing.

And above all, don’t forget who you are. “It’s easy to lose yourself in the money,” said one winner from Ohio. “But don’t forget that you’re still you.”

Your Turn Could Be Next

The Mega Millions jackpot has made thousands of millionaires — and yours could be the next. So, if you're endeavoning to win the lottery, preparation is key. Take wisdom from those who have traveled the road, and when you hit, if you do, you will know how to handle it well.

When you win the lotto, you open the door to endless possibilities, whether it’s building your dream home, traveling the world, or just providing your family with a secured future. Just make sure to navigate it with both eyes wide open.”