Are you a risk taker? Do you think you have a stronger appetite for risk relative to your friends and family? We asked some folks from the community about their approaches to risk and have shared their thoughts below.

Jennifer Cahill | Hairstylist and Owner of Republic Hair Co

I used to be afraid to take a risk! But every time I do it ends up launching me into bettering myself and advancing my life and career. I grew up in the PNW and thought I’d live there forever. Especially as a hairstylist, building a clientele is hard work and once you build it makes it hard to leave. But after a devastating breakup at the age of 26 I decided I needed a change. Read more>>

Angel Rodriguez | Esthetician (Skin Therapist)

Risk has played a huge part in where i am today in my career. I graduated high school in 2013 and went immediately to college at The University of Texas at San Antonio. Going into my first semester i knew my major was going to be chemistry and knew i wanted to be a dentist. Well, at least i thought. After my first year i took some time off and thinking i decided dentistry wasn’t the right path for me. Read more>>

Gene Grey | Digital fine/pop Artist

Taking risks was and is the model that works best for me. Taking a risks artistically is the foundation to pushing the envelope and driving culture. I’m also empathetic to those who are skeptical of risks, because so was I at one point. I didn’t come out the gate swinging for the fence when I first started. I was beyond uncomfortable sharing my art when I first started. I just had to take that risk it if I wanted to become successful and grow. Read more>>

Apollo Mcknight | Influencer

I believe that taking risks is an inherent part of growing as a person and learning what you can handle and what you’re capable of. I think that it’s important to understand that everything you do is risky for example from waking up, to driving your car, or even moving to a new job. There is nothing in this world I feel that doesn’t come without some amount of inherent risk. Read more>>

John Cann | Stuntman/Stunt Coordinator/Actor/Producer/Director

As a motion picture stuntman and stunt coordinator risk is a huge part of what I do. There is no true reward without risk. From a stuntman’s perspective risk is our job but knowing how to mitigate the risk is critical. I believe that risk taking should be very calculated. Risk vs reward. If you are going to take a risk what do you stand to gain? Read more>>

Jack Hill Jr. | President, Hill Building Group

Most decisions in life are based on some level of risk. I think what sets people apart when it comes to risk is each persons individual tolerance for risk. Some people are more conservative in their approach, others are ready to jump in with both feet… I think I fall somewhere in the middle of that spectrum. With great risk comes great reward… Read more>>

Azure Maravilla | Real Estate Agent

Personally, without risk my life would be meaningless. I was raised in an extremely volatile environment with Asian parents who would constantly put me down for my accomplishments and dreams. Because I was never allowed to take pride in my work and creativity, I’ve always been a the type of person who walks to the best of their own drum. The way I dress, talk, act, and express myself has always been bold and individualistic. Read more>>

Kiara Noble | Traveling Hair Stylist

Risks are the single most anxiety inviting options that I come across, however, I believe they can be the diving line between success or a lesson learned. As people, we are often better than we perceive and can do more than we give ourselves capacity and credit for. I’ve taken many risks and they have always gotten me to the next level of my life. Read more>>