Getty Images/Kevork Djansezian
On the off-chance you hold the winning numbers, "The first thing to do is to take a very deep breath," says Robert Pagliarini, certified financial planner and author of "The Sudden Wealth Solution."
"Research tells us that when we are under stress, our brain responsible for planning and long-term decision making shuts off and the part that takes over is the part that is responsible for our fight or flight response," he explains to Business Insider.
"The more we can ground ourselves and not get caught up in the frenzy, the better our decisions will be."
Next, he advises you call up the lottery association (of the state in which you purchased the ticket) and ask if you are allowed to sign the ticket.
"Lottery tickets are 'bearer' instruments. This means that whoever holds the ticket is the winner," he explains. "I would also strongly suggest you take a photo and video of yourself with the ticket."
Finally, put together your "financial triad."
"This includes an attorney, a tax person, and a financial adviser," Pagliarini says. "This financial dream team can help you make smart financial decisions and help you plan for the future. They can also help shield you from the media and from the onslaught of money requests from others."
Plenty of lottery winners end up blowing it all. The biggest difference between those folks and the ones who keep their wealth is mindset, Pagliarini explains:
Based on my experience working with sudden wealth recipients for nearly 20 years now, I can tell you that those creating lasting wealth have a different mindset than those who spend through their money.
Rule number one is to take control! This doesn't mean you have to have all the answers, but it means that you accept that no matter what happens, it is your responsibility. This shifts the focus from others to yourself. It's that ownership mentality that makes all the difference.