By far, the topic that comes up most in our conversations with entrepreneurs and creatives is risk.  We’ve had conversations about risks that worked out and risks that did not. We’ve seen eyes light eye sharing about career-trajectory changing risks as well as folks sigh about the risks they wish they had taken.  Below, we’ve selected and shared some of those thoughtful conversations.

Kyaunnee Richardson | Opera Singer

When it comes to making an important decision, I ask myself “How will this effect me in the long term?” rather than the short term. Thankfully, I am able to ask my parents or those who are older than me for their guidance and wisdom by talking out my ideas and what information I have gathered. Other thing I do is write in a separate journal those thoughts, ideas and information. Also, I use common sense and trust my gut as well. Read more>>

Debbi Hixon | Magnet Coordinator South Broward High School

I think of risks as a way of improving something, you can’t move forward if you don’t try things that make you uncomfortable. I also try to evaluate the risks and determine if they are worth engaging in. Recently, I decided to take a risk and run for the Countywide School Board Seat. I am not really a politican, so going out and asking they public to vote for me to serve them in this role is a huge risk, but I feel like I have alot to bring to this position. Read more>>

Anna Lietaieva | Artist

I was born in Ukraine in a family of lawyers. In my childhood I spent a lot of time at drawing and frequently took part in different creativity contests. When it came to choosing my future profession I heeded my parents’ advice and entered the law faculty in the National University of Ukraine. I had worked as a lawyer in Ukraine for 7 years until 2016 when a political war broke out between Ukraine and Russia. Read more>>

Lourdes Casanova | Criminal Defense & Immigration Attorney

Risk is more than just an uncomfortable precursor to possible “success.” Risk is a journey of its own, with an intrinsic value independent of traditional views of success. An inherently brave act, risk-taking requires making decisions in the face of the unknown. Risk-taking fosters confidence, self-worth, and resilience. To that end, risk-taking is a success in its own right. Read more>>