TL;DR:
- Shift pure risk to calculated risk, always
- Position yourself to enable you to take a gamble from time to time
Growing up, the phrase "Don't take the risk" has echoed in the ears of many, often delivered as sage advice from well-meaning adults. This cautionary mantra is particularly ingrained in Asian cultures, where a conservative approach to life is often encouraged. But is avoiding risks the key to a fulfilling life? What exactly are these risks that adults are talking about?
Pure Risks vs Calculated/Educated Risks
Pure risk is the possibility that something detrimental may occur, typically at random. Often intimately related and mistaken for chance, pure risks aren’t the same as luck. In a finer grain, pure risk talks about possible scenarios/outcomes that can happen while chance/luck outlines the probability of it happening. Taking on pure risks means there is no possibility of a positive outcome, i.e., something bad will happen or at best, nothing at all will occur. Because pure risks occur at random and cannot be controlled, adults tend to advise us to avoid such uncertainties in life.
Calculated/educated risks on the other hand are all about statistics and experience. It is the careful analysis of what you stand to gain against what you could lose. In other words, it is a well-informed decision based on your knowledge and experience, hence there’s a degree of certainty around it.
Is taking risks bad?
As the most intelligent beings on Earth, humans are wired to pursue progress and advancement. With progress inevitably comes risk, and it is crucial to distinguish between the two forms: pure risks that should be avoided whenever possible and calculated risks that should be embraced strategically. This mindset is something we need to continuously cultivate and prime within ourselves.
The idea of taking risks, especially calculated ones, is not inherently negative. In fact, it is integral to personal and societal development. Embracing calculated risks allows us to step out of our comfort zones, facilitating growth, innovation, and progress. It opens doors to new opportunities and experiences, enabling us to reach heights we might never have imagined.
"When you have nothing to lose, you have everything to gain." - Ryan Blair
The wisdom of taking calculated risks lies in the acknowledgment that surprises and breakthroughs often come when least expected. Author Ryan Blair aptly captures this sentiment with the phrase, "When you have nothing to lose, you have everything to gain." The willingness to take calculated risks implies a readiness to face challenges, adapt to uncertainties, and seize unforeseen opportunities.
Calculating risks involves a degree of certainty based on knowledge and experience, making it a strategic and conscious choice. It's about weighing the potential rewards against the possible setbacks and making decisions that align with long-term goals. By adopting a calculated risk-taking mindset, individuals can navigate the fine line between progress and stability, ensuring that they are not paralyzed by fear but are instead propelled forward by ambition and vision.
The notion that risks should be avoided at all costs is an oversimplified perspective. While pure risks pose genuine threats that should be approached with caution, calculated risks are the stepping stones to growth and success. Embracing the unknown, making informed decisions, and venturing into uncharted territories are the hallmarks of a life lived to its fullest potential. So, the next time you hear the familiar refrain of "Don't take the risk," consider whether it's a caution against the uncontrollable or an opportunity to embark on a calculated journey towards greatness.
Content above is purely my understanding and opinion at the point of publishing. It does not necessarily represent absolute accurate information but merely sharing of knowledge on my part. Comment below for any inappropriate/misinformation.
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