Legend holds that Cornelius Vanderbilt had built a massive fortune in the steamboat shipping industry, but then realized the railroads were the way of the future and invested almost his entire net worth into railroads. The gamble paid off and made Vanderbilt one of the wealthiest entrepreneurs ever. But risks are inherently…risky. How do you think about risk and how has it affected your life and career? Some of our community favorites share their perspective below.

Julieta Braum | Entrepreneur & founder of Daizzy Gear

Risk-taking has been a fundamental aspect of my life and career, acting as a catalyst for growth, learning, and achievement. In my professional journey, taking risks often meant seizing opportunities that others might avoid, whether it was pursuing challenging projects, switching industries, or starting a new venture after my son was born due to my changed time constraints. These bold decisions have led to significant advancements and accomplishments. On a personal level, many of my achievements have resulted from taking risks. Read more>>

Rudy Lafrance | Wedding & Event Guitarist

With risks, I like to start very small. For instance, as a musician, I want to stand out, so whenever I’m playing my guitar arrangements of popular songs, I add my own style and uniqueness to it to make it different. I might incorporate some solos, embellished melodies, chord melodies, or even interact with the crowd a bit during my sets. Just keep in mind that these are things that I’m adding on the spot. Read more>>

Alicia K. Garcia Dash Maverick | Co-Owners, Society Circus Players

The nature of improv is risk-taking–you don’t know what’s going to happen when you step out into the light with a scene partner. You have to trust them, and you have to be okay with risk. Improv has made us both more comfortable in taking risks, especially if it’s with a team or group we trust. We didn’t know what we were doing when we started Society Circus Players, but we just said “Yes…and” and went for it. We still don’t know what we’re doing but we know the risk is worth the reward. Read more>>

Lauren Brooks | Author, Writer & Educator

Risk by definition means exposure to danger, so naturally the risks you take may be some of the scariest decisions you’ll make in life. However, risk is also imperative because of its proximity to success. The truth is in life when we take risks they may not always end up the way we envisioned for ourselves. But if we don’t then nothing happens. I’ve learned to do the work on myself first. To do the research, to be kind to myself, to take self care days, and to listen to what the voices in my community are saying. Read more>>

Leo Sukkar | Official Realtor in the Gator state Florida

Risk-taking has been a huge part of my journey, especially in real estate. When I went full-time, I watched my savings dwindle, and it was scary. But I burned all my ships behind me—do you know what that means? It means leaving no option but to move forward and succeed. That fear pushed me harder than ever. I believe risks are essential; they push us out of our comfort zones and make us bet on ourselves. Every risk I’ve taken has brought me closer to my dreams. Read more>>

Jasmine Joseph | Creative & Entrepreneur

I think risk taking is what life is about. It makes life worth living, and it helps you explore new depths of yourself that you never would’ve known. If you would’ve stayed in your comfort zone. Within my life, risk taking has helped me to become a healed, knowledgeable, calm, disciplined and outgoing person. Within my career, it’s helped me to understand what it is that I love and what I should not longer invest my time and effort into. Which helps me discern what I want to do and, how I want to spend my time earning money, Adding ease and prosperity to my mental and physical health. Read more>>

Daniel Vinogradov | Business Owner

Risk plays an important role in many people’s lives. To some, risk is something that can ruin motivation and willingness to continue, but for others, it could be the very reason for existing. As a business owner, risk is simply part of the game and sometimes you have to take a risk that others are actively avoiding. ‘If you’re not taking risks, then are you really growing?’ This has become the motto for Daniel Vinogradov, the owner of We Got Hose – Exterior Cleaning. After all, just look at our company’s name. This motto is how We Got Hose has gotten its distinct name and branding . Read more>>

Jerry Barrish | Artist / Sculptor

I’ve lost and made a lot of money by taking risks. Taking risk is about making a decision and being OK with it. I think the act of taking risk and the emotions that come up, is really something that you have to look at and understand. It’s part of the deal: you’re not going to win all the time. When you make the call, and say “I’m going to take this risk”, you’re also saying “I’m prepared to deal with any fear or anxiety that comes up.” And not let it overcome you, or eat you alive, or whatever. Read more>>