We asked some of the most interesting folks in the community to open up about how they think about taking chances and the role risk has played in their lives and careers. Risk is by far the topic folks talk to us most about and we hope the responses below will help shed light on many different perspectives.

Omisade Burney-Scott | Creator/Chief Curatorial Officer, Black Girl’s Guide to Surviving Menopause

I think that risk is an essential element of growth. Risk is a dynamic alchemic process that is one part strategy and two parts faith. We all have narratives that play out in our heads around what happiness, community, success, and safety can look like. These narratives are informed by our families, culture, lived experiences, etc. These narratives drive or reinforce how we move in the world and make meaning of our lives and relationships, for better or worse. In my 56 years on this planet, I have learned that living in my purpose has required me first to take a risk to interrogate the internal narratives I have about myself baked in from childhood and society. Do these narratives serve me? Are they in service to me being a healthy person with healthy relationships who can serve my community without sacrificing my physical or mental health? Read more>>

Lluvia Phillips | Maternity and Newborn Photographer

Its important to take educated risks as long as you have a goal and plan in mind. Read more>>

Anna Simeonides | Entrepreneur and Executive Pastry Chef

I’m a big fan of responsible risk taking. I think a lot of people never reach their full potential or pursue their passions because they’re scared. The way I see it, you’re already not doing “the thing”, so why not try? It can only get better. You truly miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. That said, you have to be smart about it. Do your research, build a foundation, weigh the pros and cons. Be intentional and do everything you can to set yourself up for success. If fear of failure is the only thing stopping you, you are your own biggest hurdle. Not a lot of people know this, but when I dropped out of college to pursue baking full time, I forfeited a very substantial scholarship. There was no way I could afford to go to such a stunning university on my own finances. Read more>>