Risky Business

There is nothing in life, whether it's the smallest step like wearing a bright orange sweater when you usually wear neutrals, or something bigger like starting your own business, that doesn't require risk. Risk, in a sense, is saying, "Here I am, world! This is me, what do you think?" Taking chances can be a very scary process, but we couldn't possibly move ahead without it. We would never have made it to that first day of kindergarten, never worked up the courage to go on that first date, or never applied for that dream job.

Take a look at your life and ask yourself if fear of putting yourself on the line is holding you back. Did you not call that old friend because you weren't sure they'd be overjoyed to hear from you? Do you not apply for grad school because you might not be accepted? If so, take heart in the fact that you can change. Start with small things that make you nervous, setting the goal of trying one a day. Talk to someone in the office who intimidates you, or try a new food. Slowly but surely, you will begin to see that all the horrible things you may have imagined never or rarely happen. And when you find yourself hesitating, remind yourself that you will never know what could have been achieved if you never take the risk to find out! (Of course, be careful not to put yourself in any dangerous situations.)

by T.L. Scribe