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.

Chris Picasso | Musical artist & producer/ DJ

You have to take risks. It’s important to step outside your comfort zone & do things that challenge yourself. It’s necessary, but make sure the risks are calculated and learn from what works & what doesn’t. Taking risks has helped me grow & be open to trying new things that lead to new experiences. Read more>>

Gayle Antonides | BSW & Ceramic Artist/Instructor

For me, risk is scary but necessary. At this point I can look back at past risks and know that I’ve yet to regret any I’ve taken, and with time come to understand that things work out exactly how they are meant to. So if I want to make something happen I have to take a risk and if it isn’t hard then I will not gain anything. You have to take risks to reap the rewards. That’s true in every aspect of life. If you feel stuck, know that making the change necessary to break free will feel horrible, but one day you will look back and think, I can’t believe I’m living the life I always dreamed of now. Read more>>

Mayor Alix Desulme | Mayor

Risk-taking is part of life. To succeed in life, one has to take some level of risk. However, understanding what affects your risk tolerance will help you know what to consider as you take calculated risks. Many in today’s society are more likely to encounter social rejection, fear of failure, or the terrifying unknown. Read more>>

Marcus Banks | Fellow Comedian/ Brother

Risk is and will always be a necessary for growth and innovation. One must be able to realize the potential consequences. Example before this webseries I had a job. In my life I have made bad decisions with the intention of good. This time my decision to quit my job and focus on my project was the best decision I ever made. Some think the reward is monetary for me and it’s the furthest thing from my mind. My story has to be told by me and shared to help not only the generation coming behind me but to help my daughter realize she can accomplish anything she puts her mind too. She can assess all issues cautiously approach with love and understanding it’s not the end but the beginning. Read more>>

Nic McKinley | Tech Entrepreneur

Risk is a simple math equation: Risk = Probability/Consequence. Most people overestimate both probability and consequence and so fail to calculate the risk of any given decision correctly. In most cases, the consequence of failing to reach a goal is remaining exactly where you started, but with an education in what not to do. That in itself is valuable. Since the actual consequence is so low, why not go for it? The probability of my becoming a USAF Pararescueman was .09. The probability of getting hired by the CIA was .01, and the probability of graduating from Harvard University was .03, yet because I realized there was little downside to trying I was able to accomplish all three. I am not special in any way; I just accurately calculate risk, and so try things most others do not. I think most people evaluate a low probability of success as the risk, whereas one is only a factor of the other. Read more>>

Lara Vincent | Creative Director & Owner – Broken Telephone

I believe in reframing risks as opportunities for growth, exploration, and innovation, rather than as limiting boundaries. As Pema Chodron wisely stated, ‘fail, fail again, fail better,’ emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of challenges. Whenever I encounter hesitation towards perceived risks, I maintain a sense of curiosity and openness to new possibilities. Read more>>