What’s the best that can happen?
When we consider taking a risk, we usually ask ourselves, “what’s the worst that can happen?”
What if we changed our perception?
What if we trained our minds to consider the best possible outcome?
***
Let’s Clear the Air
This article is not about risky behaviors that cause harm to ourselves or others. Nor am I promoting engagement in these activities. I’m writing about taking calculated risks allowing growth and a more fulfilled life.
The Cambridge Dictionary defines a calculated risk as,
a risk that you consider is worth taking because the result, if it is successful will be very good.
Mindset Matters
Our mindset matters — it determines how we approach situations. It is the determining factor in whether we fight-or-flight. If we reframe our mindset to expect a positive outcome, we can minimize fear and view risks as learning opportunities.
Exploring Your Mind says we should push through fear, take risks, and expect to make mistakes along the way. “Life is full of them, but they allow you to grow and learn.”
Growth
Here is how taking risks helps you grow:
- Builds confidence
- Overcome fears
- Learn something new
- Explore new opportunities
These growth opportunities are worth stepping into unchartered waters.
You will never experience personal growth, if you fear taking chances.
— T.A. Sorensen, Where’s My Purse?
Imagine
Can you imagine a life without taking risks? Melissa Cyders has, and in Health Day, the risk researcher and assistant professor of psychology at Indiana University-Purdue University in Indianapolis says,
“Imagine a person who never takes any risks. They might never find a mate, never get a career that they enjoy, they might never make any friends. In other words, trying to play it safe every time would be the biggest risk of all.”
Forfeiting a life of risks for a safe one does not sound appealing. And I agree with author Gina Greenlee, “Risk: no full life occurs without it.”
***
Still Wondering if You Should Take the Risk?
You should — if it makes sense. And there is no time like the present. See the possibilities and leap now. The growth opportunities are worth taking the risk. And you may end up happier.
Need motivation? Watch this brief YouTube video, REAL TRUTH ABOUT RISK TAKERS, by Mulligan Brothers.
And if you are ready to step into boldness, read the article, Afraid of Risks? How to Be Bolder, for tips.
“You have to take risks. We will only understand the miracle of life fully when we allow the unexpected to happen.”
― Paulo Coelho, ‘By The River Piedra I Sat Down And Wept,’ 1994