Playing it safe is one of life’s biggest risks. It’s amazing how the very thought of a potential reward is overlooked by the fear of loss. This is before anything has even materialized. Most of us get comfortable living below our potential because it is safe and predictable. We dream of doing more and having more but refuse to take chances.
“Taking risks is the cost of admission to greatness.” – Art Jackson
How do you know if the greatness you seek is work the risk? If it is worth it, exactly how big of a risk should you be willing to take?
Your risk-taking compass:
- Courage: Fear is a negative emotion in anticipation of something that hasn’t even happened yet. Don’t waste time trying to get over your fear of failure. Instead, take a courageous leap and you will soon notice your fear dwindling until it loses its paralyzing effect.
- Tiptoe: Not quite ready to leap? You can tiptoe instead. There are often times when you must make a life-changing decision on the spot but most times, the next move isn’t an emergency. Try a pilot project, run split-tests, ask questions, experiment with a side gig – there are many ways to take a “dip” into the future without diving in headfirst.
- Planning: The outcome of your big decision might be top of mind, but how much thought have you given to the process? Make sure that your plan is three things: balanced, prioritized and operational.
- Immersion: If you have gone through the first 3 steps and you feel drawn to move forward with your decision, your best bet is full immersion. This is when the transformation process occurs. You will eat, sleep, and think about how to move in synchronicity with the new decision and plan. Immersion is equivalent to commitment.
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Notice how the negative connotation associated with risk lessens as you’re guided by your risk-taking compass. Are you considering a decision that carries both a large risk and reward? If you need help sorting through your options or formulating a plan, Hire Art.