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.

Lexi Foster | Destination Elopement + Wedding Photographer

Risk plays such a huge role in my business and it’s success. I’ve always loved the quote by Ellen Sirleaf “if your dreams don’t scare you, they aren’t big enough.” I repeat that to myself constantly + remind myself that I need to make opportunities for myself. They won’t just appear. When I first started this business, It really wasn’t a business at all but I told myself someday It would be and didn’t give myself an option to not make it successful. Read more>>

Calina Hiriza | Artist

You know what they say… “You can’t win the lottery if you don’t play.” That might seem daunting because hey, how many people who have won the lottery do you know, however, the good news is that risk-taking in life or your career is as necessary as salt and pepper in your food. Too much might spoil the meal but none will make it bland. In essence, risk is necessary in (at least) moderate amounts to propel us further. Not to mention that risk will get your adrenaline going and make you feel… well, alive. Read more>>

Curtis Jones | CJ Fitness Life Coach

I look at risk taking as a fun CHALLENGE instead of fear or possible failure. Most of my life looking back I think I played it safe, stayed in my comfert zone but I’ve always wanted more wanted to do more be more and couldn’t figure it out until I got out of my comfort zone and started taking risk . I’ve moved to a beautiful Miami from Baltimore that was a risk. I put my business and myself out there more so risk taking has become a CHALLENGE I will always accept now. Read more>>