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.

Jael Pettigrew | Master Cosmetologist & Color Specialist

Taking risks have played a huge roll in my career. I wholeheartedly believe that risk taking is necessary for growth. Few things are worse than a missed opportunity so why not go for it. In my opinion, there are no failures in a transitional season only lessons learned, so why not at least try. Don’t get me wrong I wouldn’t suggest jumping into anything blindly. I’m sure we’ve all heard the saying “stay ready so you never have to get ready”. I make sure to always have a plan a, b, and, c so that when an opportunity presents itself I’m prepared to take that risk. Read more>>

Ann Greenberg | Creator & Petpreneur

I would not be in my own business if I had not taken a risk… You cannot keep doing the same thing and expect a different result… you have to breakout of your comfort zone and what is familiar and do something different and take a risk to achieve your desired goal and result. Risk is believing in yourself and your ideas as well as the willingness to confront the fear of uncertainty. Do all the risks work out? No not necessarily but, no risk no gain and hopefully you will have learned from the experience and alter and change your course of action so the next risk you take will have a more positive result. Read more>>

Geovanna Burgess White | Wedding Venue Owner, Accountability Coach & Entrepreneur

One of the hardest parts of entrepreneurship is the risk factor. I spent 17 years in retail, which molded me to the business owner I am now. They gave you specific goals, roles and responsibilities to set you up for success. What we don’t realize is the importance of strategy, structure and accountability to be able to run a successful business. Most people are afraid to take risks, the fear of the unknown and I don’t blame them. Not being in control of the outcome can be stressful, especially the first few years of starting a business. Taking risks in my career has helped me shift my mindset in a time where the event industry has suffered during this pandemic. Having to close my wedding venue for 3 months and postpone my clients events was never in my game plan, much less the fear of losing my business. Read more>>