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.

Sydney Mariano | Registered Nurse, Realtor, Local Small Business Owner

Taking Risk has been a focal decision in my life and my career. From becoming a young mother at the age of seventeen, pushing to graduate high school a year early with my Associates of Arts and applying for the registered nursing program at eighteen years old. I didn’t come from money, or a wealthy college educated family, I was the first to graduate college. I took all the risk and fears of failing and put them to the test. My husband and I married young, at 21 and 23 after being high school sweethearts. Read more>>

Micaela Barrero | Graphic Designer, Illustrator and Photographer

“Take the risk: If you win, you will be happy; If you lose, you will be wise” This statement is always in the back of my mind. After college, stepping in an industry with very talented people was very intimidating, but over time I was able to channel my energy to push harder and become a better professional. I kept my focus to become better than the day before and I was always ready for what came next. Read more>>

Jeff Dekal | Artist & Seeker

Risk taking is crucial to live a life of purpose and fulfillment. It proves passion and highlights so many things that make us uncomfortable. Vulnerability, danger, mystery. How do we truly know ourselves if we can’t understand our composure when we are faced with those aspects of life? Everything is a risk to a degree especially the things that make life amazing. Don’t be frivolous but don’t be a coward. Strive for discipline and balance but leave room to go all in when the time is right and worth it. Read more>>

anthony Gruette | head chef

Son of a former cook, my father knew the needs and the requirements that this job entails. it was a big risk for me following he’s leads knowing how difficult it will be. But today thanks to social medias cooking become an art for creative and talented chefs who want to share their arts. cooking for me is a passion and I think that in older to change old mentality you have to remain passionate, be curious and a hardworker. The key of success is to give yourself challenges and to improve your work behavior. Read more>>