The Risk of Not Risking

‘Here’s to the crazy ones. The misfits. The rebels. The troublemakers. The round pegs in the square holes. The ones who see things differently....The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world, are the ones who do" -Steve Jobs

What happens if you have a plan, a wish or a desire to change something about your life but you are fairly certain that for you, the risk of trying to implement that change seems too big. Many people tend to ruminate about the possible consequences of taking a risk. What might happen if you take a certain course of action? What will the fall-out be? It can be easier sometimes, and ‘safer,’ to just remain within the status quo or so at the time it may seem. At least then, the anticipated consequences won’t materialise and they don’t ever have to be something that becomes real. At some level, you know that what you ruminate about is only the negative side of taking the risk, but it can seem best not to risk it just in case the risk leads to things not working out.

Although it would not be wise to go thoughtlessly wreaking havoc in our lives, with thought and conscious desire for change, it is important, I believe, to consider the impact on oneself of not risking.

The risk of not risking, in both our personal as well as our professional lives can be profound. If we are not willing to allow some level of uncertainty into our lives then the consequences of this inaction to take risk (even if it is to bring about desired change) can lead to depression, anxiety and health problems. If you feel you want to take a risk but don’t do it because of fear, then you are letting fear dictate how you live your life. Is that the choice you consciously wish to make? Contemplating the consequence of not taking the risk and considering what risk you may be taking in terms of the cost to your mental health and your ability to live your life authentically, can be a good place to focus some thought and energy if you do not wish to allow fear to dominate your path through life.

Be confident in your ability to make your plan work, whatever the plan might be.

Be aware of the fear but don’t let it stand in your way. Triumph over fear and be courageous. Believe you can do it and you’re already half way there. We only get one shot at living our one, precious life. Live it for you... you are worth the risk!