Apparently, as a culture, we are quickly learning to adapt to the need of expanding our comfort zones and taking calculated risks. I’m sure much of that has evolved from the current chaotic state of existence in the U.S. today.
Last week, I shared the importance of realistically dealing with the three stages of your comfort zone. I was a bit surprised at the number of comments I received from readers on a subject which many avoid at all cost.
One of our subscribers, wishing to remain anonymous, shared the following observation of those afraid to risk.
Do you feel a little nervous when contemplating the execution of a risk—however so slight? Are you afraid to commit due to the uncertainty of the outcome? Do you have a fear of failing? Do you find yourself tending to wait until all possible risks have been minimized before setting out in a new direction?
Though caution and common sense are certainly important, sometimes taking a risk simply can’t be avoided. The avoidance of taking that risk may very well be more detrimental than actually taking the risk. Consider the following possibilities:
To laugh is to risk appearing a fool.
To weep is to risk appearing sentimental.
To reach out for another is to risk involvement.
To expose feelings is to risk revealing your true self.
To place your ideas, your dreams, before a crowd is to risk rejection.
To love is to risk not being loved in return.
To live is to risk dying.
To hope is to risk disappointment.
To try is to risk failure.
However, risks MUST be taken in today’s environment. The greatest hazard in life is to risk nothing!
Those who risk nothing, do nothing, have nothing, and become nothing. They may avoid present suffering and sorrow, but they will not learn, feel, change, grow, love or live. Chained by their fear, they are slaves who have forfeited their freedom. Only a person who risks is free.
The pessimist complains about the wind;
The optimist expects it to change.
And the realist adjusts the sails!
Is fear preventing you from taking a necessary risk today? You might want to seriously consider the alternative.
About Harry K. Jones
Harry K. Jones is a motivational speaker and consultant for AchieveMax®, Inc., a company of professional speakers who provide custom-designed seminars, keynote presentations, and consulting services. Harry's top requested topics include change management, customer service, creativity, employee retention, goal setting, leadership, stress management, teamwork, and time management. For more information on Harry's presentations, please call 800-886-2629 or fill out our contact form.