Taking Risk is essential, but how much, when and why? Taking risks effectively is as much of an art as it is a science and we’ve asked some of the brightest folks in the community to tell us about how they think about risk taking.

Jenny Parulski | Facebook Ad Strategist for eCommerce brands

I never used to take risks. I went to college to be a teacher, landed a dream job as a math teacher right out of college, worked my way up the school’s ladder quickly to Math Department Chair as a second year teacher, and I thought I would be in that career forever. It was what I went to school for and was the stable path to paying my bills and growing in the education world. It was the smart, stable thing to do to stay in teaching. Read more>>

Jennie Mizrahi | Artist and Art Teacher

In general, I don’t consider myself a risk taker. But there are major exceptions to this, and these exceptions are what have given shape to my life. Risk taking and a personality trait called openness to experience are key for creativity. Read more>>

Raychel Sanner | Storm Chaser & Activist

The best things in life are a risk. They’re a leap of faith. They’re walking into darkness completely uncertain about what’s ahead. Life is too short to not take a few big risks. Maybe it’s just saying hello to someone you find intriguing. Maybe it’s going back to school to change your career path. Read more>>

Dana Knerl | Holistic Healing Guide

I am not going to lie. Taking a risk can be scary. What I have come to find as an entrepreneur and in life is that if you never take a chance you will never grow and evolve as a person or in your profession. Read more>>

Nico Castellano | Wildlife Biologist & Nonprofit Owner

I believe taking risks is really the only way to live and thrive. Doing things differently is what makes each of us unique. Our ideas, preferences, and individuality that sets us apart. If we didn’t take risks and try new things, think of all the feats we never would’ve conquered! Read more>>

Conrad Leon | Audio Visual Systems Analyst

You have to put all your energy and focus into your project and want “it’ more than oxygen. It is scary when you start a business or in my case an artist/business. I had to work on myself as an artist by going back to school and learning music theory/composition or spend that time and money on yourself by waking up and working on your craft for eight hours. Read more>>

Dan Camp | Outdoor Professional, Whitewater Enthusiast, and Host of the Camping Out podcast

When you enter outdoor action sports, risk management will always be one of your most important relationships. That’s why I absolutely HATE when people say things like “safety third”! As an outdoor professional and a facilitator of outdoor experiences, risk management is how you ensure everyone involved has a good time and leaves the trip with a positive outlook. Read more>>