For every person that has taken a risk, there are 10 that criticize their decision. Yet, it’s the risk takers that change our world and bring great ideas forward.
For every successful risk taken, dozens fail. However, along the way those risks make people stronger, smarter and better equipped for success.
We learn and grow from our risks — as we approach the second week of the Canada Games in Prince Edward Island, I want to thank all the athletes that gave it their all and took a risk, and the parents that supported them to get there. On the Games website there are inspiring stories of first time competitors and personal-best records broken.
We inspire others with our risks — Michael Kydd started Nuts4Ribs to raise awareness about testicular cancer in Halifax, and thanks to the oodles of Facebook friends that attended the event, his efforts have been spread around the world.
Following your passion will never lead you astray — What’s common in both these examples is risk-taking didn’t get in the way of passion. It’s common to be hesitant before taking a risk, putting it all out there, and doing something out of the ordinary.
Don’t let the possibility of failure hold you back from exploring. Challenge yourself and those around you to break free from habit and see what’s out there. So what if we fail? We pick ourselves back up and try again. That’s how we learned to ride a bike, isn’t it?
You can start small or go for the gusto, the important thing is simply start. Need some ideas?
Start a blog about something you’re passionate about, you’ll be surprised how many others share your passion.
Join a club or group that you have an interest in, even if you don’t know anyone else that will be attending. Take the lead on a project and see where it goes.
Apply for a job you’re interested in, and show your passion for it. Volunteer in your community to get experience or give back (hint: the 2011 Canada Winter Games team is currently looking for planning volunteers).
Whatever it is, you should do it for yourself because its something you’re interested in, its something you’re passionate about and its something that energizes you.
Challenge yourself to take a little risk each week. Risk-taking builds character, helps us grow, and makes the places we live, work and play better every day.
Christina Biluk is Director of Engagement for FUSION Halifax. Visit FUSIONHalifax.ca to find out how to get involved in shaping our city; theurbanscrawl@gmail.com.
