Shoot your shot? Take a chance? Society bombards us with messages, phrases, examples and stories of how taking risk is the key to success, but is anything ever that simple? We asked some of the brightest folks we know to tell us about how they think about risk. We’ve shared their responses below.

Kat Knecht | Wardrobe Stylist

Taking a risk is always something I have thought of as necessary for growth, whether that is in your personal or professional life. If I’m not taking risks I don’t feel like I can evolve, grow and reach my full potential. It may be scary and not always easy, but it’s worth it. Read more>>

Kyle Richer | Graphic Designer & Illustrator

When it comes to risk taking, I always try my hardest to constantly step outside of my comfort zone. With that often comes learning new things, trying new things, and of course being a bit uncomfortable from time to time. When I think about risk, I think about doing something that I know some people may disagree with or even I may have disagreed with in the past, but doing it anyways because I know it will in some way be formative and provide me with an experience I would not otherwise have had. Read more>>

Chris Brush | Session Drummer, Producer, Mixer

On the subject of risk taking, I can say that it is integral to forging any kind of lasting career in the music business. Session players, producers, engineers, really any vocational creative, regardless of how you feel toward the idea of “business”, are all entrepreneurs. I am not sure that this mentality comes naturally to many creatives. It definitely did not come naturally to me. Read more>>

Ryan Shand | Founder and Creative Director, SHAND: Women’s sustainable clothing line

I believe that fear plays a big part in risk taking, and when I look back on my life and the amount of times I have wanted to take a risk in business, in my career, in trying something new… fear has always met me halfway in every decision. It took me going to a career coach to really understand how intentional I had to be in creating my personal path and future and that taking risks plays a huge part in making the leap towards your full potential. Read more>>

Tanner Thibert | Outdoor Lifestyle & Commerical Photographer

I believe taking risks are a necessity to not only growing your business, but also in your personal life. To evolve into the best version of yourself possible. Although I do believe that there is a difference between calculated risk, and recklessness. If you never take the risks in your life, you will remain in your comfort zone. Which I believe will prevent you from essential personal growth that will keep you from accomplishing your goals. In my personal experience I have looked up to numerous role models who shared countless stories of them taking on risks to move closers to their goals. This gave me the confidence to implement the same mentality in my own life and has led me to where I am today. Read more>>