Risks You Should Be Taking

We buckle up, read food labels, filter our water, take our vitamins, lock our doors, install smoke alarms, insure our homes…all with safety and security in mind. But some degree of risk taking is instinctive (and necessary). Without it, we’d never take a step.

Now don’t get us wrong: We’re not suggesting you hop the next flight to Vegas with Nana’s inheritance. By all means continue to change those smoke-alarm batteries each year, but don’t become so afraid of risk that you miss out. Despite a threatening world, there are still some areas where you should indulge in a little risk taking and be open to the possibilities.

Travel
Watch the news, and you’ll never go anywhere. Gas prices, accidents, threat levels…a world in turmoil. Don’t be intimidated. Pick somewhere you’ve never been and avoid all chain hotels and restaurants. Go about as the locals do, by foot, bike, or bus. This will force you into the heart of the place. Sure, it’ll make you nervous sometimes, but it’ll also wake you up.

Exercise
The more comfortable you get with a workout, the less it’s benefiting you. So put your ego (and coordination) on the line by changing your exercise program every couple months. Sign on for a new class at the gym. Rent a DVD on belly dancing. Register for a team charity event. Varying your activity will result in greater overall fitness and smaller jeans.

Career
Ask yourself this: Am I still learning? If the answer is no, then start thinking about doing something else. Changing jobs is risky in any economy, but if you’re working for a paycheck rather than personal enrichment, you need to begin laying the foundation for an eventual shift.

Money
If you have some extra cash (i.e., Nana’s inheritance), consider buying stocks. Despite how unpredictable the market has been, there are many companies priced now like holiday dresses on a February sales rack. Consider snapping up a few. To do it right, talk to a professional.

Relationships
It takes courage to make relationships deepen and grow. One of life’s most biting regrets is never telling a special someone just how we felt. Risk it. Call them now…whether it’s a relative you haven’t seen in years or a friend you had a falling-out with over something pretty minor. It’s not too late.