Risk
risk
Choosing a path where the outcome isn't guaranteed. Risk is the price of every door you've ever walked through.
Another way of seeing it
We tend to count only the risks of doing something: what if it fails, what if I look silly? We rarely count the risk of doing nothing: the job you stayed in, the person you never called, the idea that stayed in your notes app. Staying still is a risk too. It's just a quieter one.
In relationships
Letting someone truly know you is a risk. So is saying 'I love you' first. Most of the best things between people start with someone being brave enough to go there.
In the ordinary day
Take one small, safe risk today: share the idea, try the new class, send the message. Let your nerves come along for the ride.
A question to sit with
What is playing it safe costing you?
Carry this with you
Doing nothing is a risk too.
Where it comes from
From the Italian risco, once used by sailors for the danger of sailing near rocks. Risk has always been the price of leaving the harbour.
Try this today
Take one small, sensible risk you've been circling.
Journal prompts for Risk
- What risk am I avoiding because it feels uncomfortable, not because it's unwise?
- What's the worst realistic outcome, and could I recover from it?
- What might I regret not trying?
Did this word resonate with you today?
Know someone who might need this word?