The Thrill of the Draw: How I Play the Lottery Without Breaking the Bank

As reported by Kate Northrop of Lottery Post, A Michigan man's persistence playing the lottery once a week for the past ten years has finally paid off when he won a $1 million Powerball.

"I have bought a Powerball ticket for one drawing each week for ten years. I still plan to continue my weekly ritual of buying a Powerball ticket. I get $2 worth of daydreaming out of it each week, so why not?"
-Robert Benaglio

Like Michigan lottery winner, Robert Benaglio from Michigan, every Friday after work, I stop by the corner store and pick up a few lottery tickets. Nothing crazy—just a $10 budget. That’s my limit, same as grabbing a couple of beers or a cheap lunch out. The way I see it, I’m buying a little entertainment, a few moments of excitement, and who knows? Maybe even a shot at something bigger.

The Routine That Keeps It Fun

Last month, I had one of those nights. I scratched off a $5 ticket, and boom—$50 win. Not a fortune, but enough to cover the next few weeks of play. Instead of pocketing it all, I put half toward bills and kept the rest for my lottery fund. It’s a small rule I stick to: when I win, I reinvest a portion but never go overboard. That way, I never feel like I’m chasing losses.

Knowing When to Walk Away

I’ve seen people go off the deep end, spending way too much, trying to “win it back.” That’s not me. If my $10 is gone, that’s it—I wait until next week. No ATM runs, no “just one more ticket.” That’s how you stay in control and keep it enjoyable.

The Dream Keeps It Interesting

I know the odds. We all do. But for a few bucks, I get to dream a little—about paying off the house, taking that long vacation, or maybe surprising my family with something big. And that’s worth it to me. Because at the end of the day, playing the lottery is about the thrill, not the guarantee.

So yeah, I play the lottery. But I play smart. And if my numbers ever do hit? Well, you’ll hear about it.