We asked some of the most interesting folks in the community to open up about how they think about taking chances and the role risk has played in their lives and careers. Risk is by far the topic folks talk to us most about and we hope the responses below will help shed light on many different perspectives.

Lea Higgs

Taking risks, to me, is about understanding opportunity costs and recognizing that inaction is also a decision—one that can often lead to missed chances and regrets. Every choice involves a trade-off, and I believe it’s important to weigh what you’re potentially giving up by playing it safe. In my life and career, I’ve learned that the fear of failure can’t outweigh the possibilities that come with stepping into something new. Read More>>

Lynn Abaté-Johnson

Part of why I love start up life and working with start ups is that there is always inherent risk. Read More>>

Allison Andrews Canter

Risk taking and calculated risk taking is critical to have any success. You have to shoot for the moon and even if you missed you are still amongst the stars. I will say when I started my career as a 19 year old entrepreneur it was all risk and ignorance that got me there. I was also stubborn and wouldn’t take no for an answer. Read More>>

Natalie Thomas

I feel like the majority of my life has been a series of risks, it’s something that actually feels natural to me (but not always easy). Growing up, I was a springboard diver which was a massive risk within itself. The risk of failure, injury, physical exhaustion and mental health concerns was something that comes with being an athlete, especially at a D1 university. However, my time as a diver really shaped who I am as a person. Read More>>