By far, the topic that comes up most in our conversations with entrepreneurs and creatives is risk. We’ve had conversations about risks that worked out and risks that did not. We’ve seen eyes light eye sharing about career-trajectory changing risks as well as folks sigh about the risks they wish they had taken. Below, we’ve selected and shared some of those thoughtful conversations.

Alec Johnson | Tech Educator & Consultant

I think in many ways anything that drives your business and personal growth forward requires an element of risk, so I can safely say that risk has been ever present in everything I’ve ever done! However, as an engineer it has always been a measured risk in terms of the potential outcomes and as a mathematician I’ve also weighed up the probabilities of those outcomes. I know many people looking from the outside would say I have taken some very big risks in the past, both in life and business, but to me they have always felt well within my risk tolerance for these reason. Read more>>

Janvi Patel | Local Photographer & Student

I have always been passionate about learning and taking risks to achieve growth. Risks provide opportunities to learn, grow, and experience the unknown. Without risks, life can get repetitive and eventually dull. This way of thinking is what I bring into all parts of my life, whether as a student or a photographer. I am currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology at The University of Texas at Dallas and was on the pre-medical track. At first, photography started out as a mere hobby of convenience. My dad had all the equipment lying around – a Canon EOS 6D, tripods, and multiple accessories. Read more>>

Mitch Sugg | Pastor & Personal Development Coach

I think about risk in two ways. Winning and learning, there is no failing. To me, risk taking is an essential part of living. The reason is that, without risk there is no learning. I have learned this to be true in my life. The times I’ve risked the most, are the times I’ve learned the most. It’s my belief that if you’re not risking you’re not learning. Read more>>

Kristian Best | Resin Floor And Counter-top Artist

My first major risk I took was moving from St. Louis MO to Dallas TX all alone to pursue my dream, even though at the time I had no idea what my dream really was. I just wanted a better life and I found much more. Without taking that first risk, I would have never found my purpose or career. I’ve always loved art and creating is my calling. I wouldn’t be anywhere near where I am today without it. Now I travel the entire country doing what I Love and it feels like my dream came true. I’ll Be featured on Renovation Impossible this Nov, Tune in! Read more>>

Jessica Muñoz | Pro makeup artist, hair stylist, CEO of Boss Babes Co., small business event planner

I think risk is an essential factor of having your own business/brand. I’d definitely not be where I am had I not taken some risks. I think it’s important to weigh out the pros & cons of risks before making decisions. Risks always come with a lesson, and I think it’s crucial to take each failure as a learning opportunity rather than a defeat. Read more>>