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Taking Risks

To be truly successful in life you must be willing to take risks. Risk-taking can be accurately defined as trying something new or difficult. This does not mean that you should do anything for the sake of trying something new, but it does mean that you should not hesitate to learn something new or to try to make something happen that is new.

In many cases, people do not think about the difference between an “appropriate” risk and risk-taking in general. For example, skipping a family event to hang out with friends and hoping that your family does not find out is not a good way to be a risk-taker. A person with good character will understand the proper way to take risks along with the improper ways.

Are you a good risk-taker? Ask yourself the following questions and see just how appropriate a risk taker you really are:

  1. You are asked to speak in front of a group of people at an event. Would you:

    1. Practice in front of your friends and then go for it?

    2. Lie and say that you have other plans that night?

    3. Skip the invitation because you have never spoken in front of a group of people before?

  2. You are not a very good swimmer, but your friends want to play water polo in the deep end of the pool. Would you:

    1. Skip it because you are not comfortable swimming in the deep end?

    2. Lie and tell your friends that your arm hurts?

    3. Go in the deep end and hope that you don’t drown?

  3. Your friends want to learn how to water ski with a professional instructor. Would you:

    1. Go for it once you have the proper instructions?

    2. Lie and tell your friends that you have an injury that will prevent you from participating?

    3. Skip it because you are afraid of the water?

If you answered “a” to all of the questions above, then you know when and where are the appropriate times and places to take risks. Knowing the difference between good risks and dangerous risks is very important for your safety. Make sure that you assess each and every situation before you make a decision. Also, test your courage by trying new activities, as long as you insure that your attempt is safe. Remember, taking good risks can open many new opportunities and experiences in your life.