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.

Jarquita Williams | Attorney | Law Office of Jarquita Williams, PLLC

I have always taken risks and once I realized God would always keep me, the more risks I was willing to take. I’m from Jackson, MS and it’s not a place where you grow up scared of anything, but I was always fearful with anything regarding my career and the unknown. However, the possibility of not knowing what I could be missing out on if I didn’t open my law firm, or commit to the gym, or whatever it may be outweighs my fears. I’ve travelled solo, relocated with no job or plan and more but every time, God kept me. I educate myself about about interests and business ventures I want to pursue before executing on anything and I am intentional about surrounding myself with people who have been where I am. I have relocated with no family and no plan, but here I am four years later with my own law firm. I’ve travelled solo and met some of my closest friends. Every risk did not yield positive results, but even the setbacks taught me valuable lessons. Whether it was a risk I have taken in my career or personal life, I’ve always ended up with what I needed. If you’re not constantly doing things that make you afraid, are you really living? Some risks are just worth the reward. Read more>>

Andrea Jenkins | Popstar, Mom, Model, CEO

With being a musician, everything is a risk.

“Will they like my music?”
“Will this be a bop or a huge flop?”

Alot of time. Money and energy goes into making music.

We pour our hearts & souls into our music. So we are literally baring all to the World. It’s a very vulnerable place, and very risky. Read more>>

Dr. Elise Brisco | Doctor, Influencer and Fashion Model

I have always taken the road less traveled. I am a problem solver. When I see a problem, I cannot rest until I find a solution.

My motto is nothing ventured, nothing gained. Anything that is worth having is worth working for. It’s not a matter it taking risks. It’s about having the passion and the courage to go after what you what you want to achieve. I keep my eye on the prize. Read more>>

Kasi Nayles | Founder, FOR THE FEW Intimates

Some of the most significant decisions I’ve made in my life involved taking major risks. In 2010, I ventured off to Howard University in Washington, DC. At just 17 years old, none of my friends were attending, and I had never experienced living on my own. It was a massive leap of faith, one that I now look back on with immense gratitude. Read more>>

Natalia Salivia | Graphic Designer & Owner of NS Designs

Risk-taking is an integral aspect of my approach to both my career as a graphic designer and my endeavors as a young entrepreneur. Every project I undertake presents an opportunity for growth, but it also involves inherent risks. However, I firmly believe that progress and success are impossible without taking calculated risks. Read more>>