There is a wealth of academic research that suggests that differences in risk appetite are at the heart of differences in career and business trajectories. We wanted to go beyond the theory and ask real people from the community about their perspectives and experiences with risk and risk taking.

 Jing Huang

To take a risk is to take a chance – a chance for transformation, for breakthrough.

In 2013, I made the decision to bring my art practice beyond the borders of my home country. It meant stepping out of my comfort zone and into the unknown. That risk reshaped my career, shifted my mindset, and opened up entirely new ways of thinking and making. I wouldn’t be who I am, nor would my work be what it is today, without that leap. Read More>>

Deana Lytle

I never used to take risks—I played it safe, sticking to the traditional path.

But after a divorce and a lot of soul-searching, I realized something: you can’t always play it safe. If you want something, you have to go after it. And if it doesn’t work out? At least you tried. So fail, fail again, and keep going. Read More>>

Dr. Avery Atkinson

I believe risk is an essential part of growth. For me, risk has never been about recklessness—it’s about being willing to step into the unknown with faith, preparation, and a clear sense of purpose. Every major pivot in my life and career, from moving overseas to launching a global wellness initiative, founded on indigenous principles, has required a leap of faith. Taking risks has expanded my capacity, my reach, and my understanding of what’s possible. Without risk, I wouldn’t have built a career that bridges ministry, clinical chaplaincy, wellness, and global service.  Read More>>

Caroline Moore

I am no stranger to taking risks when it comes to my career and am a firm believer that with high risk comes high reward. From a young age, I knew the traditional college path was not for me. Only a few days after my eighteenth birthday, I moved away from my hometown just outside of Columbia, South Carolina to Wilmington, North Carolina and dove head first into cosmetology school. I’m strong willed, creative, and very goal driven so I knew I wanted to master my craft, but didn’t know exactly what that would look like. Fast forward a few years later, I found my niche in curly haircutting Read More>>