Taking Risk is essential, but how much, when and why? Taking risks effectively is as much of an art as it is a science and we’ve asked some of the brightest folks in the community to tell us about how they think about risk taking.

Laura Orr | Founder, aussie glows

Risk-taking has always been an essential part of who I am, shaping both my personal journey and professional achievements. I believe that taking risks is the key to growth—it pushes you out of your comfort zone, challenges your limits, and shows you just what you’re capable of achieving. Read more>>

Jason Johnson | CEO and Founder of Project K-9 Hero

Taking risks and following my passion has played a huge role in my career. I have had several positions in life that I could have been perfectly content with. Career jobs in the Military, Law Enforcement, or Federal Government where I simply could have cruised to retirement, earned my pension and sailed off in the sunset. But at some point, I willingly walked away from each one of those to seek a higher purpose, that I felt each of them was holding me back from. Institutions like that are purposely built that way. So you don’t think too much or rock the boat. To truly make a difference you can’t be held back by organizational policy, and you must leap when the time is right. While it may be a risk, it is the only way to earn true reward for an entrepreneur’s heart. Read more>>

Jill Scheuermann

Taking a risk to fulfill a dream is worth it. If I would not have taken a leap of faith and applied for Injectco’s nurse internship program, I would not be where I am today. Risks can be scary to take sometimes, but if you do not take them, you will never know what you may gain. For me, I gained a rewarding career as a nurse injector, working hours that accommodate my children and my lifestyle, loving on my patients and helping them gain confidence, and true and meaningful friendships that will last a lifetime. Read more>>

Ahava Silkey-Jones

The most defining moments of my life have come from taking bold risks. One of the most significant risks I have taken recently was moving to Dallas for a career opportunity that deeply aligned with my personal mission and vision. As with any major transition there have been challenges, but overall it has been a tremendously rewarding growth experience. I love the butterflies I get when I tackle something new. Reflecting on the role of risk in my life brings to mind The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho, a book that has been a source of inspiration for me throughout my life. Coehlo says, “It’s the possibility of a dream coming true that makes life interesting.” He urges, “Don’t give in to your fears if you do, you won’t be able to listen to your heart.”  Read more>>