essay on taking risks

Taking Risks Conception Essay

It is a well-known fact that taking risks can result in two things: success of failure. Some people say that taking risks brings to new very important findings, for example, in sports or science; others argue that taking risks can cause failure or even death, for example in finance or everyday life.

Some say that taking risks is inherent in people, and other people claim it contradicts instinct of self-preservation. To my mind, taking risks is a bit of all mentioned above, but there is no doubt that for each person taking risks is not the same.

I think that taking risks is an important and inevitable part of our lives; we all take risks, major or minor. I agree that if people want to succeed and achieve more they have to risk, at least, from time to time, or as Schwalbe puts it – to try something new (Schwalbe). I assume that all the athletes take risks to establish their records; they are likely to “40-30-30 Rule”, where 30 is the degree of the risk (Schwalbe).

This risk rule really works in sport and science, since all the experiments are a kind of risk; scientists take risks and get their results. To my mind, Schwalbe is right pointing out that the most of people regret on what they haven’t done rather on that they did. So in terms of getting rid of one’s regret a person needs to follow own instincts.

Nevertheless, it is necessary to admit that sometimes taking risk may cause very negative results; therefore it is necessary to be reasonable. I am impressed with the example provided by Ropeik about the woman who was afraid to fly because of terrorist (Dreifus). This woman decided to drive several states, and she died in a car crash.

In this case the woman should have think about the degree and possibility of risk in cars and planes. Regarding the fact that planes are the safest means of travelling, and the fact that possibility of terroristic act repeating wasn’t big, this woman should have gone by plane. This proves that there are some cases where thoughtful reasoning is needed.

Here I should stress that thoughtfulness is necessary in medicine where people’s lives are concerned. Doctors should carefully consider all the consequences and then make decisions. Doctors are not the only people who should be concerned about health; people should mind their health themselves. Every risk here should be thought over thousands of times to make no harm to oneself or somebody else.

At this point I would like to return to my statement that each person has his/her notion of risk. Someone may think that it is very risky to ride a bicycle, someone may be afraid to take a risk and visit another country or even unfamiliar place. I am sure that a person who goes in for extreme sports, may be very conservative in food and will never “take a risk” to taste some exotic dainty (here I don’t some religious or health restrictions, of course).

To my mind these humble risks can be taken, and there is something that can inspire people to take such kind a risk, this is an example of other person. For instance, in case with food, a person can see that other people taste that, so he/she can also try it; this person tries and, of course, starts trying to find those stupid reasons preventing from such pleasant experience. After this, I am sure, the person will continue taking such kind of risks.

As for me, I can’t say that I risk all the time. I can’t even provide any example of my big risk; I suppose my risks are still in future. I know that I am not afraid to take risk; at least I haven’t met some difficult situation when I was to risk.

Here I’d like to mention my friend, who is afraid of speaking. I can’t say she doesn’t talk at all, but she is not a public speaker, and she will never speak on something she is not sure about, and if she is asked something she doesn’t know thoroughly she just keeps mum. My friend is afraid of making mistake.

To my mind this is not right, for everyone knows if we don’t make mistakes will never learn. In this connection I would like to cite Carrol admitting that “failure is a good thing” (Carroll). Though, I wouldn’t agree that “success is boring” (Carroll). I’d rather admit that people should try to improve even successful things. A good example of this is Carrol’s daughter who seeks for the further development (Carroll).

To my mind, taking risks is essential for the whole humanity. It is impossible to imagine where we could be now if our ancestors didn’t risk to tame fire. All these great and little risks lead people to new discoveries, new opportunities. I think people should take risks and start something new; they can’t just sit and talk about achievement of others, they should take a chance and risk, leaving one’s fear behind, without being afraid of failure, because failure will only show the right way to go and succeed.

Works Cited

Carroll, J. “Failure Is A Good Thing.” NPR. 2006.

Dreifus, C. “A Conversation With/David Ropeik; The Fear Factor Meets Its Match.” The New York Times . 2002.

Schwalbe, M. The 40-30-30 Rule: Why Risk Is Worth It . The 99 percent Web.

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Taking Risks In Life: Why You Should + How To Do It Right

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Do you ever look back at your life and wish that you had made a different decision or taken another path?

When reflecting on these times, can you remember why you chose one direction over another?

Most people will answer that they were afraid to choose the riskier option because of what could have happened if they did. As such, they chose the easier, safer, or more certain option because they knew it carried less chance of embarrassment or failure.

That said, most people end up deeply regretting the chances they didn’t take, rather than being haunted by the temporary discomfort of embarrassment or rejection. In fact, one of the top deathbed regrets that people have is that they didn’t take more risks in life.

So, what does risk-taking look like? Why is it important? And what is the best approach to taking them?

Speak to an accredited and experienced therapist to help you take more and greater risks in life if this is something you struggle to do. You may want to try speaking to one via BetterHelp.com for quality care at its most convenient.

What does it mean to take risks?

The basic definition of taking a risk is going ahead and doing something even though you know the consequences might be less than awesome. For example, asking someone out on a date is taking a risk because they might turn you down and that would hurt you emotionally.

Similarly, going skydiving is risky because your parachute might not open and you could end up splattered in a field amongst terrified and contemptuous cattle.

Some situations are riskier than others (as mentioned above) and are even labeled as such. There are also lower-risk endeavors that aren’t quite as daunting.

Low-risk financial investments, for example, are considered a sure thing. You might not get as much of a monetary return on your investment, but it’s unlikely that you’ll lose much money, if any at all. In contrast, high-risk investments often offer the possibility of a massive return… but there’s just as much of a chance that you’ll lose the shirt off your back.

Essentially, to take a risk means doing something, anything, in which the outcome is uncertain.

Why is it important to take risks?

It’s said that nothing is certain in life other than death and taxes, which means that every single thing we do requires some measure of risk.

People are very keen to “stay safe” these days, but there is no such thing as real safety. To live an authentic, fulfilled life requires one to throw themselves off proverbial cliffs on the daily and discover whether they’ll sink or soar.

Risk is something we need to do in order to experience the life we’ve been blessed with. Below are just some of the reasons why it’s so important to take risks on a regular basis.

How can you get to know who you are if you don’t try different things?

I recently came across a blog post in which someone was talking about their “safe foods.” This person wasn’t neurodivergent, nor did they suffer from any kind of food allergies. Instead, they stuck to foods they knew and were comfortable with because they were “afraid” of what other foods might taste like.

They thought that things like coffee, Thai food, and samosas smelled amazing, but they were just too damned scared to try them.

Look at some of your favorite foods and ask yourself how sad it would be if you had to go through life without ever having tried them. After all, you obviously weren’t born loving fettuccine carbonara or burritos. You had to risk a potentially unpleasant sensation in your mouth in order to determine whether they were good or not. But how sad would your life be without the amazing foods that you adore?

All of life is like this.

Every single thing you like was new to you once and, therefore, had a risk associated with trying it. You slowly become the person you were destined to be by stepping out of your comfort zone again and again.

You’ll never know unless you try.

I’ve known people who have fallen into deep pits of depression because they haven’t gotten the job they wanted, nor gotten together with a lover they were aching for, simply because they were too afraid of rejection or failure. They’ve literally spent decades lamenting “the one that got away,” except that person or job opportunity didn’t “get away,” they weren’t even attempted.

I once asked a friend of mine why he never bothered going after a girl he was completely in love with, and he told me that he wouldn’t have been able to deal with it if she had rejected him.

There have been so many situations in which people have been into each other, but since neither of them took the initiative to let the other know, those chances for connection were squandered.

Yes, it may hurt for a while if the person you desire doesn’t reciprocate that affection, but it would be so much worse to find out 40 years later that the person you loved actually felt the same but didn’t think you were interested because you didn’t take that leap of faith.

The biggest contributing factor to people not doing things is fear. In particular, it’s fear of the unknown and all the “what if” anxieties associated with it. Most people talk themselves out of doing things because they’re more hung up on the potential negative aspects than the positive ones.

Here’s an example: let’s say you really want to get into martial arts, but you have a lot of fear associated with it. Maybe you have a bit of social anxiety or you’re scared about how much it’s going to hurt when you get hit at the dojo. As a result, you’ll find reasons to talk yourself out of it.

The people there are going to be too aggro. You don’t want to have to deal with other people’s sweat, and so on. In fact, you’re better off without that mess!

In reality, this isn’t the case at all. In fact, at a good dojo, you will undoubtedly get your fair share of bumps, strikes, and the wind knocked out of you… but that’s exactly the kind of physical and emotional conditioning you’d need to fare well in a street fight.

Everything will suck at the beginning, because both your muscles and your mind will be unused to that particular kind of training and exercise. The movements will feel clunky and unfamiliar, and you may get hurt a bit before you learn how to block properly. But that’s okay. That’s what your teacher is for and that’s why you have the opportunity to practice with others.

The teacher will push you hard, but they’ll also take good care of you. The people you spar with aren’t specifically out to hurt you. They’re practicing their technique, as are you! Besides, getting hurt because you didn’t block their strikes is a great way to improve your defensive techniques, right?

You’ll develop invaluable coping mechanisms.

Have you ever wondered why certain friends of yours don’t seem to be plagued with anxiety or self-doubt? Instead, they tend to approach and deal with situations with confidence and self-assurance.

That isn’t because they’re secretly deities walking around in human costumes. Rather, it’s because they’ve exposed themselves to countless difficult situations and learned to cope with the outcomes accordingly.

I’ve seen people refuse to read books that they know they’d love just in case they see a word or phrase that “triggers” them and makes them uncomfortable. Rather than exposing themselves to it enough times that it stops bothering them, they’ll run away and hide from it, thus making themselves even more sensitive to it in the future.

Risks allow us to build up resistances and grow thicker skin. Life is going to throw difficulty at all of us, so it’s a good idea to learn how to cope.

For example, whenever someone travels, there’s a risk that their luggage will be lost. It’s frustrating when that happens, but it’s not the end of the world. You learn to pack essentials into your carry-on and make do until the airport returns the luggage to you. And if that doesn’t happen, you can pick up a few replacement items to get you through.

After you’ve learned once that you can handle such a situation, it will be less likely to cause you anxiety in the future.

You know you can handle it, so why worry?

Being expansive is far more rewarding than being contractive.

When we’re afraid or hesitant, we contract into ourselves. This is where we get the description of someone “shrinking” in fear. In contrast, when we’re courageous, we expand. We literally open our hearts and minds to the potential of greatness.

There is no life without risk.

If you use a car to go shopping for groceries this week, you risk being T-boned in an intersection by a drunk driver. Do you plan on showering sometime soon, despite the risk of slipping and breaking your neck? How about eating? With every bite, you risk choking to death or having a new allergic reaction to something.

Get the idea? Absolutely every single thing you do involves risk of some sort. There’s no avoiding it, and there’s always the possibility of failure or devastation around any corner.

Many people are wracked with anxiety about the possibility of failure, so they hold themselves back from countless things that could bring them joy or success just in case things don’t work out. They don’t want to risk embarrassment, disappointment, or potential failure.

The thing is, the only way you are guaranteed to fail is if you don’t try at all.

Besides, there’s no success without failure. When we misstep at something, we try again until we get it right, and we learn an extraordinary amount in the process. Furthermore, I don’t know about you, but I’d rather risk and fail miserably than spend forever wondering what might have been if I’d actually had the courage to try.

How to take calculated risks.

The best way to deal with risk-taking is to approach it from a methodological standpoint. Sure, we’ve all done risky things at the spur of the moment, but most risks we take in life will be calculated ones we’ve considered carefully over time.

1. Do your research.

Quite simply, understand as much about what you’re about to do as you possibly can before actually doing it. The reason for this is because the light of knowledge generally dispels the shadow of fear. When you have answers and information at your disposal, you’ll feel a lot less anxiety about potential missteps. Uncertainty can never been completely overcome, but it can be minimized.

A great example would be trying rock climbing. Throwing yourself into outdoor rock climbing without any practice would be extremely high risk; however, a lower, calculated risk would be to learn all you can before you do it.

Go to an indoor climbing gym and take lessons from professional climbers. This would include learning how to tie climbing ropes properly, how to use carabiners, what type of clothing and shoes are best to wear, and what to do if x, y, or z goes wrong so you know what to do in case of an accident or unforeseen adversity.

Build up hand, wrist, and leg strength with weights and elastic bands. Practice climbing in the beginner area, and work your way up (literally). This will take time, but give it a few months and you’ll be strong and confident enough to do an outdoor climb with the help of seasoned professionals.

You’ll have an incredible time while gaining confidence in your own abilities. In fact, that confidence will spill out into other areas of your life, so the next time you feel anxiety or trepidation about a situation, you’ll remember how you overcame your worries and managed to climb a literal mountain. If you can do that, imagine what else you can achieve!

2. Determine whether the benefits outweigh the potential downsides.

Chances are you weigh the pros and cons of various risks on the regular. For example, you know how delicious that gutbuster 3000 burrito is going to be as it tantalizes your taste buds and makes you purr in gustatory delight, but how are you going to feel in a few hours? Will that abdominal trainwreck be worth the momentary deliciousness?

Do this same pro/con weighing for every risk you’re thinking of taking. Write down all the good points that you think will be associated with this endeavor, as well as all the potential downsides that may occur.

Then, if you find that the good points outweigh the bad, consider proceeding. If, however, the “this is going to end really badly” list is several times longer than the benefits package, you may want to reconsider it.

Or, if you’re like me, you might try it anyway just to see what happens and deal with the consequences as they unfold.

3. Consider all the potential outcomes.

Whenever you’re planning something—be it a home renovation project or a trip—it’s important to try to anticipate all potential difficulties. By doing so, you can determine how to deal with these eventualities and create contingency plans for all of them.

As you can imagine, a great approach when considering doing potentially stupid things is to anticipate anything and everything that could go wrong, and then envision how you’d deal with them.

I recently watched some videos of professional snowboarders who travel the world, bravely boarding down the Rockies and lower Andes in Patagonia. These guys throw themselves down slopes that could kill them if an unexpected avalanche happened, and each one of them has suffered fractures, dislocations, and concussions. They all know that each trip could potentially be their last, but you know what? They do it all over and over again anyway.

They would rather risk getting severely hurt than give up the closest sensation to flying that they’ll ever have.

4. Do the small stuff first.

This expands upon what we said about practicing bit by bit before taking on something big. It’s swimming in the shallow end of a pool while wearing water wings instead of diving off a boat into the ocean.

Just like climbing the beginner wall at the gym, you can start with low-risk/high-return ventures that can help to build up your self-confidence.

Start lifting 10lbs and doing repeated reps at the gym instead of throwing your back out lifting 100lbs. Cook a simple breakfast dish and expand your culinary repertoire one ingredient at a time, instead of risking defeat (and a potential nervous breakdown) trying to cook an entire holiday dinner for the first time.

As you grow more confident in your abilities, you’ll naturally be able to handle larger and more demanding potentialities. Additionally—and this is massive—your self-confidence will be bolstered enough that a small setback will simply be an obstacle to overcome, rather than a crushing defeat.

5. Psych yourself up.

In addition to learning all you can about the thing that you’re getting ready to risk doing, be sure to psych yourself up for it in the most positive way possible. Create a music playlist that gets you going or maybe have a uniform of some type (like a lucky Iron Maiden T-shirt) that you can wear to put yourself in the right mindset.

Focus on bringing as much positive energy to this as possible, even if you’re trembling deep down.

Some people even find that a dose of liquid courage (like a shot of whiskey) can help to boost their confidence and courage just enough to get past their fearful hesitation.

6. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

Courage isn’t the absence of fear: it’s getting on with things even though you’re shaking in your boots. You may feel scared or anxious as you’re about to do the risky thing, but you’ll feel immensely relieved after you’ve done it.

Even if it doesn’t go the way you’ve planned, you can feel a huge amount of pride and satisfaction in the fact that you didn’t let your own worries or potential failure stop you from pursuing something (or someone) you wanted.

So, it’s not a case of learning how to be fearless , but rather forging a healthier relationship with fear.

7. If it doesn’t work out, regroup and try again.

If you don’t get the job that you really wanted, it’s okay to feel disappointed. The key is not to allow yourself to fall into a pit of despair. Instead, ask the hiring team if they could give you some insights as to why you didn’t get the position.

If they tell you about shortcomings they found (e.g., problems with your resume, certain behaviors during the interview process), then you can take steps to improve them. This way, you’ll be better prepared for the next job that you apply for.

Alternatively, if they tell you that you did everything right, but the other person was just a tiny bit more qualified, then you know there isn’t a problem with you at all; you just need a bit more experience.

Similarly, if you take a risk and ask someone out, and they tell you that they’re not interested, try not to be completely crushed by it. We all have our perceptions of what people are like, but that doesn’t mean that’s who they really are. Furthermore, we don’t know what’s going on in their heads. If someone says they’re not interested, it’s unlikely that there’s anything wrong with you personally, it’s just not a great match.

See this as a blessing rather than a defeat. You two might have gotten together and had a seriously unpleasant time, only to end things on a sour note. Instead, you’ve had practice approaching someone, and you survived them turning you down!

So now you can approach a person who’s likely better suited to you and know that if they decline as well, you’ll survive that too. Best of all, when you connect with a person who’s right for you, it’ll be that much sweeter.

See this as learning to fail with grace. Kindness, courage, composure, faith, and unrelenting will can get you through the most trying of situations. You’ll learn from each and every one of them and become a better, brighter version of yourself as a result.

How to find the courage to take your chances in life:

Taking risks can be intimidating, but it’s also immensely fulfilling. Additionally, it’s likely that you already have more courage than you give yourself credit for—it’s merely been hiding behind shields of social expectations and ingrained self-doubt.

Here are a few things you can do to help you find the courage to take your chances.

Let go of fear.

As we talked about earlier, the main thing that holds people back from living their best life is fear. It’s all in your mind, and has no real power over you unless you grant it some. When you feel fear rising up, ask yourself if you know what you’re feeling is real and true. If it isn’t, then why are you afraid of it?

Seek things out for yourself, rather than taking another person’s word for it.

How often have you heard people say that they’re afraid of doing something because someone they know had a bad experience? Quite often, things that intimidate us are terrifying until we learn the truth of them. Then, the weight of the situation dissipates like mist.

Whatever it is, look into it and get practical know-how and experience. For example, many teens are terrified by the idea of driving, but it quickly becomes second nature once they’ve been behind the wheel a few times.

Try to avoid overanalyzing .

Many people hold themselves back from doing things they really want to do because they “what if?” themselves into paralysis. Think about all the things you’ve ever experienced, and ask yourself whether any of them have ever unfolded exactly the way you dreamed of.

We can never see all ends, so it’s a good idea to flow with things rather than trying to analyze and anticipate every possibility.

Immerse yourself in media that inspires you.

Listen to music that uplifts you and makes you want to look to the sky and roar. Ignore or avoid media that fills you with anxiety or lowers your self-esteem. Furthermore, don’t waste your time getting into battles with trolls online. Refocus that energy into endeavors that inspire and energize you.

Choose inspiring heroes.

This expands upon the media exposure mentioned above. If the heroes in a film or TV series you’re watching spend the entire time awkwardly flailing, stumbling, and apologizing, then find other, better heroes!

Watch or read things where the characters are brave, resourceful, and skilled rather than bumbling, hesitant, and crippled by anxiety. More Aragorn or Katniss Everdeen, less Sheldon Cooper or Willow Rosenberg.

Be true to yourself.

We now live in an era where being strong, brave, and assertive is looked down upon, while those who are timid and apologetic are lauded as role models. You can be courteous, gentle, and kind and still be very brave and fierce.

Love and courage are expansive forces, and they are also rather contagious. When people see others standing up and fighting for what’s right and true, that inspires them to get over their own fears and do the same.

Ask yourself what kind of life you want to live.

A person who risks nothing may avoid temporary discomfort or disappointment, but they’ll be guaranteed to experience an exceptional amount of regret. They’ll simply plod safely through life without any thrills, elation, or amazing stories to tell about the time they nearly broke themselves in half doing that incredible thing that was the highlight of the decade.

What kind of a life would that be? If we don’t seize opportunities that are offered to us, we deny ourselves the chance to live fully. To do this one must take risks, upset the boat, and be prepared to argue and fight if need be in order to live authentically and to defend that which is ours.

Many people tamp down their true natures so as to fit in better with those around them, but that takes its toll. If you’ve been holding back from doing the things you really love, or being yourself around others because they find you “too intense” or “too much,” then consider changing your social circle. Having to be less than what you are to make others more comfortable wears down one’s spirit over time.

That isn’t a recommendation to immediately cast aside all your friends and family members and go cliff diving without any practice, of course. The middle road is often the best option here.

Weigh your pros and cons as mentioned, take those calculated risks, and don’t be put off if things don’t go the way you want them to. Honestly, 99 times out of 100, things unfold as they should rather than how we might want or expect them to go. Furthermore, they usually end up being far better than we expected.

I’ll tell you this right now: I’ve taken a lot (and I mean A LOT ) of risks in my life, and I wouldn’t be who or where I am now without them. Some had disastrous results, and I’d be lying if I said that I haven’t experienced more than my fair share of physical injuries as well as heartbreak. But each experience—even the awful ones—was a learning experience that I would never have had anywhere else.

Each of these experiences taught me incredible lessons, for which I couldn’t be more grateful. I have great memories and stories to tell, and I treasure the people I have in my life, all of whom I would never have known had I not thrown myself off the proverbial cliff. It all goes to show that taking risks can lead to joy and fulfilment that you never thought possible. You just have to have the courage to try.

“What if I fail?” “Oh darling, but what if you fly?”

Still not sure how to go about taking risks because some part of you is holding you back? Talking to someone can really help you to handle whatever life throws at you. It’s a great way to get your thoughts and your worries out of your head so you can work through them.

Speak to a therapist about it. Why? Because they are trained to help people in situations like yours. They can help you to identify and understand the things that hold you back so that you can become more comfortable taking a risk now and then.

BetterHelp.com is a website where you can connect with a therapist via phone, video, or instant message.

While you may try to work through this yourself, it may be a bigger issue than self-help can address. And if it is affecting your mental well-being, relationships, or life in general, it is a significant thing that needs to be resolved.

Too many people who are afraid of risk try to muddle through and do their best to overcome it, but they often never really get to grips with. If it’s at all possible in your circumstances, therapy is 100% the best way forward.

Here’s that link again if you’d like to learn more about the service BetterHelp.com provide and the process of getting started.

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About The Author

Finn Robinson has spent the past few decades travelling the globe and honing his skills in bodywork, holistic health, and environmental stewardship. In his role as a personal trainer and fitness coach, he’s acted as an informal counselor to clients and friends alike, drawing upon his own life experience as well as his studies in both Eastern and Western philosophies. For him, every day is an opportunity to be of service to others in the hope of sowing seeds for a better world.

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How Taking Risks Can Lead You to a Better Life

Taking risks doesn’t mean succeeding every time, and that’s ok taking risks can lead to failure which in turn can help you grow as a person..

(zhukovvvlad / Shutterstock.com)

Many of life’s greatest achievements require going outside of your comfort zone. Whether it means overcoming shyness to perform onstage, investing money to help your business grow, or putting yourself out there for the chance to find love, some of life’s most rewarding experiences come as a result of taking risks. However, many of us have a difficult time dealing with the uncertainty that goes along with taking risks. A feeling of unease grows out of not knowing the outcome and the fear of potential failure. What if I embarrass myself in front of everyone? What if I lose all the money that I invested? What if I open my heart and get rejected? What if I’m not good enough? Answer that with another “what if”: what if the point of taking risks isn’t the outcome, but the process in and of itself. Through taking risks, we must confront our own fears, and sometimes that leads to failure… But what if that wasn’t such a bad thing after all?

The Key to Succeed? Learn to Fail

“The master has failed more times than the beginner has even tried.” — Stephen McCranie Many may have a negative view of failure, but actually, it can provide an essential tool for building character. Failure makes us stronger and more resilient. People who fail repeatedly develop persistence in the face of difficulties. Look at the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, who lost eight elections, failed twice in business, and suffered a nervous breakdown all before becoming one of the greatest American presidents. Through failure, he developed the persistence necessary to later lead his country through one of its hardest periods in history. Perhaps he never could have done so without experiencing so many failures himself. What does that tell us? Taking risks doesn’t mean succeeding every time, and that’s ok! The process of taking risks may lead to failure, but even that can make us a better person by increasing the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.

(kenary820 / Shutterstock.com)

The One Thing Risk-Takers Have in Common? Overconfidence

Failure might turn us into better people, but that doesn’t make it any less difficult to take risks. It turns out that building confidence can help in overcoming the fear of risk-taking. Entrepreneurs must go up against tremendous odds to build a successful business. That means taking big risks without knowing the outcome. What makes them do this? Confidence, and a lot of it. In a study , Ohio State University management professor Jay Barney, Ph.D., and Lowell Busenitz, Ph.D., of the University of Houston, asked 124 successful entrepreneurs and 95 top managers to answer a round of questions and rate how sure they felt about their responses. While both groups demonstrated confidence, the results proved that the entrepreneurs had an exceptionally high level of confidence.

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Learn to Overcome Your Fears

Luckily, confidence is a learnable skill. Erika Casriel describes in her book , Living Fully with Shyness and Social Anxiety, "The reality is that most socially confident people deliberately learn specific skills." That means, through practice, we can develop better confidence, equipping us with the right skills to take risks. Even someone as seemingly outgoing as comedian Will Ferrell once considered himself painfully shy and claims he had to work very hard to overcome his lack of confidence. To do so, he would do idiotic things in public so that people would laugh at him. He told People Magazine,” In college, I would push an overhead projector across campus with my pants just low enough to show my butt. Then my friend would incite the crowd to be like, 'Look at that idiot!' That's how I got over being shy." What does this tell us about taking risks? When we feel shy or afraid of something, we can take action to build more confidence. Instead of accepting himself as a shy person, Ferrell had the courage to overcome his fears by facing them. In doing so, he felt more confident outside of his comfort zone.

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The Cycle of Success

The takeaway? Taking a risk to achieve a goal requires courage to face the fear of uncertainty. No matter the outcome, either way, we grow through the process and become more resilient and confident. Better yet, building those skills helps in taking more risks and improves the chances of achieving future goals.

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Why Do People Take Risks?

Nick Sednew was working as a trumpet player aboard a cruise ship two years ago when it steered into a powerful storm between Antarctica and the southern tip of South America. The ship's captain told everyone to stay inside, and warning signs blocked the doors to the decks.

Sednew did not heed the warnings.

"I really like storms, and when else are you going to be in Antarctica? I wanted to witness it, so I went out past the signs," Sednew, 26, recently recounted.

The forces of nature were stronger than he expected. As the wind pushed against him, Sednew started running to get back inside, but the deck was slick with rain. He fell. "I broke my nose and cut my lip and there was blood everywhere," he said. Clinging to the railings to prevent being blown overboard, he clambered back to the door.

Many people feel the same urge Sednew felt: the desire to venture past the limits of safety in pursuit of a rewarding experience. Sednew was lucky to make it back alive: Sometimes risky desires can be deadly, as exemplified by the frequency of fatal sky-diving and mountain-climbing accidents. Indeed, excessive risk-taking significantly lowers one's life expectancy . So why has the urge evolved? And what explains the differences in what each of us is willing to wager?

As with most aspects of our behavior, the answer is buried deep in our evolutionary past.

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There are exceptions, of course, but generally speaking, men tend to take more risks than women do. "Especially with recreational risks and financial risks, you'll find this," said Andreas Wilke, an evolutionary psychologist at Clarkson University and an expert on risk-taking and decision-making. He says the gender divide points to the underlying reason for risk-taking.

"Besides societal and cultural reasons, there is also a biological underpinning that in part drives the sex difference," Wilke said. Men have more intra-sexual competition than women do for sex, and so they must advertise their sexual fitness through daring exploits more overtly. "Women are choosier in this context and so are predicted to be more risk-averse," he said.

While women tend to behave responsibly and make staid decisions, the burden is on men to impress them through acts of boldness and strength. "If you compare the behavior of a single adolescent male with his behavior when women are watching, you can see how the risk increases. In a competitive situation with his buddies, his risk increases substantially," Wilke said.

Of course, women take risks, too. Research shows they take more social risks than men; for example, they're more likely to change careers late in life or express unpopular opinions in business meetings. But they also take recreational risks . After all, women, just like men, must strive to impress.

Though people do become less risk-seeking as they age and as they enter into stable relationships, Wilke said men's testosterone level can shoot up again upon getting a divorce, and they again become more risk-prone. "Relationship status makes a surprisingly powerful predictor," he said.

But why do people (men and women) make certain risks but not others? Why is someone who doesn't think twice about bungee jumping unwilling to bet big in blackjack? Though people's risk behavior is complicated, psychologists actually have a simple theory to explain it.

Domains of daring

According to Wilke, risk-taking can lead to extraordinary success or extraordinary failure, and is thus an important aspect of the human condition, but for a long time, scientists struggled to define the behavior. "Risk is very widely different in terms of what kinds of risks people are willing to take and the subjective reasons for why they take risks," he told Life's Little Mysteries.

Rather than being generally risk-seeking or risk-avoiding, people are a complicated blend, he explained. "A person might be risk-seeking in a recreational risk way. But that person may be risk-averse in financial situations. They would do bungee jumping but wouldn't invest in the stock market ." Likewise, a financially reckless person who is willing to wager everything in a game of blackjack might never attempt a controversial joke in a conversation with strangers.

A Columbia University psychologist, Elke Weber, was the first to account for this subjectivity, with a model called "domain-specific risk propensity." It holds that everyone has a unique risk propensity in each of five categories: financial, health/safety, recreational, ethical and social.

At a given time in a person's life (depending on relationship status), his or her risk propensity in each category is inherent and unshakable. "People have inherent risk thresholds. When air bags were put in cars, for example, deaths did decrease, but not as much as they were predicted to. That's because people started to drive a little faster " thus keeping their overall safety risk level the same, Wilke said.

Weber and others have found that a person's risk propensity in one category says little about his or her propensity in another. But people still follow a predictable pattern. It turns out that, within a certain domain, a person's tendency to take risks correlates with how much he or she expects to benefit from the outcome. For example, in the safety risk category, Sednew likely placed a very high value on experiencing an Antarctic storm. Other people couldn't care less about having such an experience.

Consequently, studies show that Sednew was likely to perceive the risk of going outside during the storm as being much lower than other people would. According to Wilke, when people are optimistic about the outcome of their behavior, "they actually perceive it as not being risky. They might think, 'Well, I'm young these barriers apply to other people.'" [ Is Optimism Good for You? ]

And indeed, that's what was going through Sednew's mind: "I kind of felt like, 'Yeah, I get why this rule is here, but it doesn't apply to me because I'm special or smarter than someone who would go out and hurt themselves,'" he said. "The rule is there, but you don't think it applies to you because you're in control."

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Follow Natalie Wolchover on Twitter @ nattyover . Follow Life's Little Mysteries on Twitter @ llmysteries , then join us on Facebook .

Natalie Wolchover was a staff writer for Live Science from 2010 to 2012 and is currently a senior physics writer and editor for Quanta Magazine. She holds a bachelor's degree in physics from Tufts University and has studied physics at the University of California, Berkeley. Along with the staff of Quanta, Wolchover won the 2022 Pulitzer Prize for explanatory writing for her work on the building of the James Webb Space Telescope. Her work has also appeared in the The Best American Science and Nature Writing and The Best Writing on Mathematics, Nature, The New Yorker and Popular Science. She was the 2016 winner of the  Evert Clark/Seth Payne Award, an annual prize for young science journalists, as well as the winner of the 2017 Science Communication Award for the American Institute of Physics. 

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Hero — Risk Taking

Risk Taking Essay Examples

The importance of writing an essay on risk taking.

Writing an essay on risk taking is important because it helps individuals understand the significance of taking risks in various aspects of life. Whether it is in personal relationships, career choices, or business ventures, taking risks is a crucial part of growth and success. By exploring this topic through writing, individuals can gain valuable insights into the benefits and potential consequences of risk taking.

When writing an essay on risk taking, it is important to consider the following tips:

• Define the Concept: Start by defining what risk taking means and its significance in different contexts. This will provide a clear understanding of the topic for the readers.
• Provide Examples: Incorporate real-life examples of individuals or companies who have taken risks and the outcomes they experienced. This can help illustrate the impact of risk taking.
• Discuss the Benefits and Drawbacks: Analyze the potential benefits and drawbacks of taking risks. This will provide a balanced perspective on the topic.
• Offer Personal Insights: Share personal experiences or insights on risk taking to make the essay more relatable and engaging for the readers.
• Emphasize the Importance of Calculated Risks: Highlight the importance of making informed and calculated decisions when taking risks, rather than acting impulsively.
• Conclude with Key Takeaways: Summarize the key points and lessons learned from the essay, leaving the readers with valuable insights to ponder.

Overall, writing an essay on risk taking can provide a platform for individuals to explore and understand the significance of taking risks in life. It can also serve as a tool for personal reflection and growth, allowing individuals to assess their own approach to risk taking and make informed decisions in the future.

• The psychological impact of risk-taking on individuals

Risk-taking is a behavior that involves engaging in activities with uncertain outcomes, often with the potential for both positive and negative consequences. It is a fundamental aspect of human nature, and individuals engage in risk-taking behavior for a variety of reasons. Some people may seek out risky activities as a way to experience excitement and adrenaline, while others may take risks in pursuit of personal or professional goals.

The psychological impact of risk-taking can be complex and multifaceted. For some individuals, engaging in risky behavior can lead to feelings of exhilaration and a sense of accomplishment. However, for others, it can result in feelings of anxiety, fear, and regret. Additionally, risk-taking behavior can also have long-term consequences for an individual's mental health and well-being.

• One potential topic for an essay on risk-taking could explore the psychological factors that drive individuals to engage in risky behavior. This could include an examination of the role of personality traits, such as sensation-seeking and impulsivity, in influencing an individual's propensity for risk-taking. Additionally, the essay could also delve into the impact of environmental factors, such as peer influence and societal norms, on an individual's willingness to take risks.
• Another potential topic for an essay on risk-taking could focus on the relationship between risk-taking behavior and mental health. This could involve an exploration of the ways in which risk-taking can both positively and negatively impact an individual's psychological well-being. For example, the essay could examine how risk-taking behavior can provide a sense of excitement and fulfillment, but also lead to feelings of stress and anxiety.
• Furthermore, an essay on risk-taking could also explore the potential long-term consequences of engaging in risky behavior. This could include an analysis of the ways in which repeated exposure to risk-taking activities can desensitize individuals to potential dangers, leading to a greater likelihood of engaging in even riskier behavior in the future. Additionally, the essay could also examine the ways in which risk-taking can contribute to the development of mental health issues, such as addiction and substance abuse.

The psychological impact of risk-taking on individuals is a complex and multifaceted topic that can be explored in a variety of ways. By examining the factors that drive individuals to engage in risky behavior, the relationship between risk-taking and mental health, and the long-term consequences of risk-taking, it is possible to gain a deeper understanding of the psychological implications of this fundamental aspect of human nature.

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Reflective Essay on Risk-Taking

Risk-taking is the essence of human nature. From the beginning of our lives we learn to be adventurous. We learn to walk despite the many falls we undergo. We learn to ride a bike even after earning scars from losing our balance. But as people grow older, many try to abandon the scary, yet thrilling reality of risk-taking. If we avoid risk-taking altogether, society would be stuck in an endless loop of when it was first founded. Imagine a world without space exploration or medical discoveries, one that is dull without the advancements of risk-takers who escaped the loop. 

I come from a long line of risk-takers. The unique mindset of my family has made me who I am today — a young adventurer who sees the world full of endless possibilities waiting to be conquered. My mother and her three siblings grew up in a small town outside Yerevan, once part of the Soviet Union. Now part of the thirty year old country, Armenia. They enjoyed life as they knew it, speaking fluent Armenian in a neighborhood that felt more like a family. However, my grandparents knew that their children were destined for more than their country had to offer them. They were children of survivors of the Armenian Genocide, with parents who could hardly smile due to the constant discrimination and traumatizing events they endured. They wanted to give my mother, and her siblings, a different childhood than the one they had. The United States provided them this opportunity, but they would have to abandon everything they knew to get there. 

My far-reaching family soon became my support system, who encouraged me to be the most adventurous and curious version of myself. They signed me up for every opportunity available — dance classes, tae kwon do, piano lessons, soccer, clubs, art classes, and anything you could ever dream of. As a child, I unknowingly sucked up their ability to be a risk-taker and adopted it for myself. The timorous child I once was would be unable to recognize the person I am today. I was a young girl who daydreamed of being a leader, but was terrified to be one. That young girl soon met programs that made speaking out worth the fear, and soon deserted that fear for a passion: government and politics. 

Freshman year, I reluctantly joined YMCA Youth and Government, a club designed to model the New York State government, with youth taking over the capitol building to debate bills, argue cases, and keep up with the press. I knew signing up meant that I would have to speak in front of hundreds of people. I didn’t think I could do it, and I couldn’t the first year. I crashed and burned at every conference we had. But, I fell in love with writing my own legislation that I felt passionate about. I was determined to be a successful bill author, and create awareness and justice for those underlooked. So, I signed up again. My new bill protected those in domestic violence situations through removing firearms from perpetrators upon arraignment. It was soon passed and signed by the governor, voted as the best bill, and earned me a winning election for Speaker in my chamber. 

I hope one day to use my ambition in a career. For now, I strive to bring back my knowledge to my school and help those who strive to be risk-takers too.

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Factors Associated With Risk-Taking Behaviors

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• Who's at Risk?
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Risk-taking behavior refers to engaging in actions or activities that have the potential to be harmful or dangerous, increasing the risk of unintentional injuries and violence. This can include misusing alcohol , binge drinking , taking illicit substances, driving under the influence , or engaging in unprotected sex. 

Here we discuss the potential causes of risk-taking behaviors. We also explore several risk-taking examples that can harm a person's health and well-being, along with providing a few tips for getting help.

Causes of Risk-Taking Behaviors

There are a number of reasons why people might engage in risky behaviors. Understanding these reasons can be helpful when it comes to addressing them.

Thrill-Seeking

Given that risk-taking behaviors are potentially dangerous, some people wonder why anyone would take part. On one hand, the behaviors put those individuals in harm's way. On the other hand, they also give participants the chance to experience a thrill followed by emotions of relief or triumph.

Driving fast, for example, may lead to a car accident that harms the individual who is driving and others on the street. In the moment and directly after, however, it may bring about positive feelings from the thrill of a fast ride followed by relief in not getting caught by the police.

In some cases, people engage in risk-taking behaviors simply because they enjoy the adrenaline rush that comes with it. These people are often referred to as "thrill seekers" and might take risks even when there is no real benefit in doing so.

Social Influences

Risky behaviors can sometimes be a way to gain social approval or acceptance. Peer pressure , for example, can play a significant role in risk-taking behaviors. If someone sees their friends or peers doing risky things and wants to feel accepted by them, they might engage in those behaviors too.

This is particularly true during late adolescence when teens typically feel that conforming to their social group is important. With their friends' influences, teens often engage in some amount of testing their abilities and exploring limits as they forge their own identities. This becomes problematic when it puts their health and well-being at risk.

Mental Health

Certain mental health conditions can contribute to risk-taking behaviors. For example, individuals with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) are more likely to engage in risky behaviors because they tend to be more impulsive. People with bipolar disorder are also more likely to take risks during manic and hypomanic episodes.

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is in and of itself a risky behavior, but using alcohol and other substances can also contribute to additional risk-taking. For example, research indicates that people with alcohol dependence engage in more high-risk behaviors, especially after bouts of heavy drinking, due to both impulsivity and sensation seeking.

There are many different reasons why people engage in high-risk actions. As with other types of behaviors, genetic and environmental factors often influence how likely people are to participate in these types of behaviors.

Risk-Taking Examples

Risk-taking behavior can include a range of actions. Some carry more serious consequences than others and, in some cases, may involve the occurrence of more than one high-risk behavior at a time.

Examples of risk-taking behaviors that people may engage in include:

• Criminal activity such as stealing, vandalism, or trespassing
• Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol or engaging in dangerous driving, such as street racing or texting while driving
• Engaging in extreme sports that have a high risk of injury or death
• Gambling, often betting more than they can afford to lose
• Getting into physical fights or altercations
• Having sex with strangers, or engaging in sex without using protection against sexually transmitted diseases or unplanned pregnancies
• Sexting or sharing sexually explicit content on social media apps
• Skipping school
• Tobacco use  

Even when risk-takers engage in widely practiced behaviors, such as drinking or smoking cigarettes, they put their lives at risk as deaths associated with these behaviors are higher than deaths associated with illicit drug use. Still, risk-takers tend to ignore the consequences of their behaviors.

Who Engages in Risk-Taking Behaviors?

There are a number of factors that can make it more likely that people will engage in risky behavior. Here are some of the demographics with higher rates, according to research.

Young Adults

Age can play a role in how likely a person is to engage in risky behaviors. While these behaviors are present throughout the lifespan, young adults are more likely to engage in risk-taking behaviors than older adults.

Some studies have found that these behaviors are the most prevalent in 19 to 29-year-olds. Others suggest that risk-taking behaviors peak in the teen years and decline with age, as people become more risk-averse.

The brain is still developing and maturing in the early years of life. As a result, teens and young adults are often more impulsive, more likely to take risks, and less likely to consider the consequences.

A person's biological sex may also have an impact on whether they engage in risk-taking behavior. Some research indicates that males are more likely to be risk-takers than females. This difference may be due to having higher levels of testosterone.

Although the hormone estradiol—which is higher in females—has also been associated with taking greater risks, as has higher cortisol levels , which is often referred to as the "stress hormone."

Social factors, like the pressure to conform to gender norms , can also play a role. For example, males might feel pressure to take risks to appear "masculine" while females might feel pressure to avoid risk-taking to appear "feminine."

People With Certain Genes

Genetics appear to play a role in risk-taking behaviors as well. Some researchers have identified certain genes that tend to be more present in individuals who engage in risky behaviors.

Other studies have made this connection by studying the genes of twins. According to one piece of research, financial risk-taking was determined to be roughly 29% inherited while safety-related risk-taking had a 55% heritability rate.

Impulsive and Adventurous Personalities

Certain personality traits may also influence risk-taking behaviors. For example, people who are more impulsive, sensation-seeking, or adventurous are more likely to take risks. Additionally, if a person's Big 5 personality traits change, their level of engagement in risky behaviors tends to change as well.

Individuals With Mental Health Conditions

Certain mental health conditions may also contribute to an increased risk for risk-taking. One is post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A study of 234 military veterans with PTSD and mild traumatic brain injury found that these individuals were more likely to engage in risk-taking behavior, especially when in a negative state.

According to the study, this is due in part to veterans with PTSD often being more impulsive. They also tend to be more sensation-seeking, feel a sense of invincibility, and are prone to a higher level of boredom.

Getting Help for Risky Behaviors

If we find ourselves engaging in risky behaviors such as drug abuse, unprotected sex, or gambling, it's time to get help. Risk-taking behavior can cause us physical harm, such as by contracting a sexually transmitted infection , or lead to financial losses that we can't recover from without some heavy lifting. 

Working with a psychotherapist can help address the underlying causes that might be contributing to risk-taking behaviors. Support groups can provide access to others who are going through similar experiences.

Social support is also important. Consider confiding in a close friend or family member who can reinforce accountability when the urge to engage in risky behaviors strikes. 

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Overview: What is the Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System?

Buckley R. Qualitative analysis of emotions: Fear and thrill . Front Psychol . 2016;7:1187. doi:10.3389/fpsyg.2016.01187

Siraj R, Najam B, Ghazal S. Sensation seeking, peer influence, and risk-taking behavior in adolescents . Educ Res Int . 2021;8:1-8. doi:10.1155/2021/8403024

Duell N, Steinberg L, Icenogle G, et al. Age patterns in risk taking across the world . J Youth Adolesc . 2018;47:1052-1072. doi:10.1007/s10964-017-0752-y

Dekkers T, de Water E, Scheres A. Impulsive and risky decision-making in adolescents with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): The need for a developmental perspective . Curr Opin Psychol . 2022;44:330-336. doi:10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.11.002

Marengo E, Martino D, Igoa A, et al. Sexual risk behaviors among women with bipolar disorder . Psychiatry Res . 2015;230(3):835-838. doi:10.1016/j.psychres.2015.10.021

Korlakunta A, Pavankumar Reddy CM. High-risk behavior in patients with alcohol dependence . Indian J Psychiatry . 2019;61(2):125-130. doi:10.4103/psychiatry.IndianJPsychiatry_395_17

Peacock A, Leung J, Larney S, et al. Global statistics on alcohol, tobacco and illicit drug use: 2017 status report .  Addiction . 2018;113(10):1905–1926. doi:10.1111/add.14234

Willoughby T, Heffer T, Good M, Magnacca C. Is adolescence a time of heightened risk taking? An overview of types of risk-taking behaviors across age groups . Development Rev . 2021;61:100980. doi:10.1016/j.dr.2021.100980

Reniers R, Murphy L, Lin A, Bartolomé S, Wood S. Risk perception and risk-taking behaviour during adolescence: The influence of personality and gender . PLoS One . 2016;11(4):e0153842. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0153842

Kurath J, Mata R. Individual differences in risk taking and endogeneous levels of testosterone, estradiol, and cortisol: A systematic literature search and three independent meta-analyses . Neurosci Biobehav Rev . 2018;90:428-446. doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2018.05.003

Strawbridge RJ, Ward J, Lyall LM, et al .   Genetics of self-reported risk-taking behaviour, trans-ethnic consistency and relevance to brain gene expression .  Transl Psychiatry. 2018 ; 8:178. doi:10.1038/s41398-018-0236-1

Wang XT, Zheng R, Xuan YH, Chen J, Li S. Not all risks are created equal: A twin study and meta-analysis of risk taking across seven domains . J Experiment Psychol: Gen . 2016;145(11):1548-1560. doi:10.1037/xge0000225

Josef AK, Richter D, Samanez-Larkin GR, Wagner GG, Hertwig R, Mata R. Stability and change in risk-taking propensity across the adult life span . J Personal Soc Psychol . 2016;111(3):430-450. doi:10.1037/pspp0000090

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By Matthew Tull, PhD Matthew Tull, PhD is a professor of psychology at the University of Toledo, specializing in post-traumatic stress disorder.

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Essay Samples on Risk Taking

Risk-taking is a fundamental aspect of human nature. It’s an inherent part of progress, innovation, and achievement. By pushing the boundaries of what is known and venturing into uncharted territories, individuals have propelled themselves and society forward. Taking risks involves a willingness to confront uncertainty, face challenges, and overcome obstacles. It requires resilience, adaptability, and a belief in one’s own abilities.

Writing a College Essay About Taking Risks

A college essay about taking risks provides a unique opportunity to delve into the multidimensional nature of risk-taking. In your essay you can:

• explore different types of risks, such as intellectual, emotional, physical, or social risks.
• examine the motivations behind risk-taking and the potential rewards and consequences that accompany it.
• discuss how risk-taking can lead to personal growth, expanded horizons, and the development of essential life skills such as decision-making, problem-solving, and resilience.
• explore the challenges individuals face in assessing risks, weighing potential outcomes, and making informed decisions
• analyze the role of risk-taking in entrepreneurship, scientific breakthroughs, artistic endeavors, and personal relationships.

To craft an exceptional essay on “Risk Taking,” begin by reflecting on your own journey. Recall moments when you dared to challenge the status quo, overcome fears, and make bold choices. Share anecdotes that highlight your resilience, determination, and ability to embrace uncertainty. Consider the lessons you learned along the way and how they shaped your character and worldview.

To enhance the depth of your taking risks essay, include relevant research findings, expert opinions, and statistical data. Support your arguments with credible sources and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Conclude your essay with a thought-provoking summary that leaves readers inspired to embrace risk-taking and embark on their own transformative journeys. Encourage them to consider the balance between calculated risks and reckless behavior, emphasizing the importance of learning from both successes and failures.

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Best topics on Risk Taking

1. Definition Of Heroism As A Self Deserving Act

2. The Role of Technical Workers in Theatre Industry

3. The Book Report – The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine

4. Risk Taking of Commercial and Retail Bank

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6. Effect of Terrorism on Risk Taking and Investment Decision

7. Outcomes Of Locus Of Control Among Drug Abusers: Role Of Perceived Social Support

8. Risk Factors Of Stress In The Workplace

9. The Health Risk Factors Of Lack Of Proper And Regular Fuel Availability

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Essay on Taking Risks In Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on Taking Risks In Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Taking Risks In Life

What is risk-taking.

Risk-taking is a part of life. It involves doing something that is uncertain or has a chance of leading to a negative outcome. Taking risks can be scary, but it can also lead to great rewards.

Why Take Risks?

There are many reasons why people take risks. Sometimes, we take risks to achieve something that we want, such as a new job or a better education. Other times, we take risks to avoid something that we don’t want, such as a bad grade or a broken relationship.

Benefits of Risk-Taking

Taking risks can have many benefits. It can help us to learn new things, grow as people, and achieve our goals. Taking risks can also make life more exciting and adventurous.

Risks of Risk-Taking

Of course, taking risks also has some risks. We might not achieve what we want, or we might even experience negative consequences. However, the potential rewards of risk-taking often outweigh the risks.

How to Take Risks Safely

If you’re thinking about taking a risk, there are a few things you can do to make sure you do it as safely as possible. First, you should learn as much as you can about the risk you’re taking. Second, you should make a plan for how you’re going to deal with any negative outcomes. Finally, you should take small steps and gradually increase the level of risk you’re taking.

250 Words Essay on Taking Risks In Life

Taking risks in life.

Taking risks is a part of life. There are few things worth doing that don’t involve some risk. Also, the bigger the risk, the bigger the potential reward. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of any risk before you take it. As there are times when it’s better to play it safe.

Calculated Risks vs Uncalculated Risks

Risk can be calculated or uncalculated. Calculated risks are those where you take the time to assess the situation and make an informed decision. Uncalculated risks are those where you jump in without thinking. In general, it is wise to take calculated risks rather than uncalculated risks. Of course, there are some cases where it is necessary to take uncalculated risks, but these should be the exception rather than the rule.

Always Have a Backup Plan

You should always have a backup plan in place before you take a risk. This means having a plan for what you will do if things don’t go as planned. Having a backup plan will help you to feel more confident about taking risks, knowing that you have a safety net to fall back on.

Learn from Your Mistakes

It is important to learn from your mistakes when you take risks. This means taking the time to reflect on what went wrong and how you can avoid making the same mistake in the future. Learning from your mistakes will help you to become a more effective risk-taker.

Don’t Be Afraid to Fail

Taking risks means that you are going to fail sometimes. This is a natural part of the process. Don’t be afraid to fail. Instead, learn from your failures and move on.

Taking risks is an important part of life. It can lead to great rewards, but it also carries the potential for failure. By weighing the pros and cons of any risk before you take it, having a backup plan in place, learning from your mistakes, and not being afraid to fail, you can increase your chances of success.

500 Words Essay on Taking Risks In Life

Why should you take risks in life.

Taking risks is a part of life. It involves stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying something new. While it can be scary, taking calculated risks can lead to big rewards, such as personal growth, new experiences, and increased self-confidence. It can also help you to overcome your fears and develop resilience.

How to Take Calculated Risks

Taking risks doesn’t mean making impulsive decisions or acting recklessly. Instead, it means carefully weighing the potential pros and cons of a situation and making an informed decision about whether or not to take the risk. Here are a few tips for taking calculated risks:

• Start small: Don’t try to take a huge risk all at once. Start by taking small, manageable risks that you’re more likely to succeed at. As you gain confidence, you can gradually increase the size of the risks you take.
• Be informed: Before you take a risk, make sure you have all the information you need to make a sound decision. This means doing your research and talking to people who have experience in the area you’re considering.
• Trust your gut: Sometimes, you just have to trust your gut instinct and go for it. If something feels right, even if it’s a little bit scary, it’s probably worth taking the risk.

Benefits of Taking Risks

Taking risks can have a number of benefits, including:

• Personal growth: When you take risks, you learn and grow as a person. You develop new skills, overcome challenges, and build confidence.
• New experiences: Taking risks can lead to new and exciting experiences. You might travel to new places, meet new people, or try new things.
• Increased self-confidence: When you successfully take a risk, you feel a sense of accomplishment. This can boost your self-confidence and make you more likely to take risks in the future.
• Resilience: Taking risks can help you to develop resilience. When you face challenges and setbacks, you learn how to bounce back and keep going.

Taking risks is a part of life. It can be scary, but it’s also essential for personal growth and success. By taking calculated risks, you can open yourself up to new experiences, learn and grow as a person, and build confidence. So don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and take a risk every now and then.

That’s it! I hope the essay helped you.

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• IELTS Luminary
• Nov 4, 2022

It is Important for People to Take Risks, Both in Professional and Personal Lives - Task 2 Band 9

Updated: Mar 18

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives.

Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.

You should write at least 250 words.

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Model Essay 1

Navigating through life's myriad challenges requires a balance of prudence and daring. The crux of this discourse lies in whether the benefits of taking risks overshadow the potential drawbacks. This essay posits that the rewards of risk-taking, particularly in fostering innovation and personal growth, significantly outweigh the inherent disadvantages.

In the professional realm, embracing risk is fundamentally synonymous with the relentless pursuit of innovation and leadership. Consider the origin stories of numerous tech giants; their early days are replete with instances where calculated risks catalyzed groundbreaking innovations, propelling them to dominance in their respective industries. Google's early investment in a revolutionary algorithm to rank web pages transformed the dynamics of how information is accessed and shared, exemplifying how risk-taking is absolutely indispensable in pioneering significant change. Moreover, the willingness to venture into uncharted territories equips individuals with unparalleled resilience and adaptability, skills paramount in navigating today's rapidly evolving job market.

On the personal front, taking risks is undeniably pivotal in cultivating a deeply fulfilling life. It encourages individuals to boldly step out of their comfort zones, thereby facilitating significant personal growth and self-discovery. For instance, the decision to relocate to a new country for work or education, though daunting, opens up invaluable avenues for cultural exchange and broadening one's perspectives. Such enriching experiences significantly enhance one's character, fostering a profound sense of independence and self-efficacy. Furthermore, confronting fears and embracing the inherent uncertainty of life can lead to a more adventurous and vibrant existence, filled with compelling stories worth sharing and celebrating.

In conclusion, while risk-taking is inherently fraught with the potential for failure, the advantages it brings, both professionally and personally, are invaluable. It is the catalyst for innovation, personal growth, and resilience. Thus, despite the possible setbacks, the act of taking risks is a fundamental driver of progress and personal fulfillment, underscoring its predominant benefits over the disadvantages.

Sample Essay 2

In the tapestry of life, the threads of risk-taking are interwoven, playing a pivotal role in shaping both our professional and personal landscapes. This essay contends that the merits of embracing risks far surpass the potential drawbacks, particularly in the realms of career advancement and personal fulfillment.

Professionally, risk-taking is synonymous with innovation and progress. Consider the realm of entrepreneurship, where individuals like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos embarked on ventures fraught with uncertainty. Musk’s investment in SpaceX, despite initial failures, revolutionized space travel, exemplifying how risk-taking can lead to epoch-making breakthroughs. Similarly, in the corporate sphere, employees who embrace risks by spearheading novel projects or adopting untested strategies often find themselves climbing the career ladder more swiftly. These instances demonstrate that while risk can entail the possibility of failure, its absence might result in stagnation, a far more insidious threat to professional growth.

In the personal domain, risk-taking often manifests in the pursuit of meaningful relationships and life experiences. Venturing into new social circles or initiating significant life changes, like relocating for a dream job or pursuing a passion, can lead to profound personal growth and happiness. For example, the decision to study or work abroad, though daunting, often results in expanded worldviews and lifelong connections. Thus, the risks we take in our personal lives, while potentially exposing us to vulnerabilities, are instrumental in crafting a rich, fulfilling life narrative. However, it is essential to acknowledge that risk-taking, devoid of prudence, can lead to adverse outcomes. The key, therefore, lies in calculated risks – those informed by careful consideration and sound judgment.

In conclusion, the act of taking risks, when approached with foresight and balance, predominantly tilts the scales towards positive outcomes. The amalgamation of professional courage and personal audacity not only paves the way for groundbreaking achievements and enriching life experiences but also ignites the spark of innovation and personal growth, making it an indispensable element in the odyssey of human success and satisfaction.

Sample Essay 3

The act of taking risks is often seen as an essential stepping stone towards success in both one's personal and professional life. While such actions can lead to uncertain outcomes and potential setbacks, the rewards that can be reaped when risks are taken judiciously often far surpass the potential downsides. This essay will argue that the advantages of risk-taking, when approached wisely, generally outweigh the disadvantages, providing a catalyst for personal growth, fostering resilience, and encouraging innovation.

Risk-taking, though potentially leading to adverse outcomes, can also be the catalyst for substantial rewards and advancements. The potential ramifications are hard to deny: an individual choosing to abandon a secure salaried job for an entrepreneurial venture, for instance, may find themselves in a precarious situation of financial instability, affecting their mental well-being and family life. High-risk activities such as skydiving or mountaineering could also lead to severe physical injuries due to the inherent risks involved. Simultaneously, however, an excess of caution and predictability can inhibit personal and professional growth. A complacent employee, despite dissatisfaction in their current role, may see their motivation for self-improvement dwindle and miss opportunities for career progression.

In the realm of personal relationships, those limiting themselves to a narrow social circle might stunt their emotional growth. Conversely, those willing to broaden their social horizons often cultivate empathy, resilience, and a more expansive perspective on life, which is particularly beneficial in societies where social interactions are somewhat constricted. It's crucial to note that risk-taking does not imply recklessness; it often involves careful assessment, robust decision-making, and resilience - invaluable life skills. An iconic example is Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX. Known for his calculated risk-taking, Musk ventured into the risky domain of private space travel, investing personal capital, overcoming significant challenges, and ultimately revolutionizing the aerospace industry.

In conclusion, while risk-taking can indeed pose certain threats, its advantages, when approached thoughtfully, significantly outweigh the potential hazards. The willingness to step out of one's comfort zone, coupled with strategic planning, offers broad benefits, from career advancements to enriched personal relationships.

Sample Essay 4

Some contend that taking a risk has more advantages than disadvantages for both individuals and professions. Although it sacrifices security and predictability, I am certain that choosing hazardous alternatives has benefits that outweigh the drawbacks since it opens up new chances.

Risk-taking may have a negative impact on your finances as well as your physical health, whether it be through unforeseen injuries, car accidents, or spending money on exciting travel destinations. Even if you want to take risks in business, there are times when doing too many risky things might end up costing you too much money to keep going. If your carelessness results in an accident that injures you or another else, you may be held liable for any damages. This will not only deplete your current budget but also increase the cost of your car insurance in the future. Unjustified risk-taking may have additional negative effects on your money. Some people take a risk by deciding not to budget or live within their means. Impulsive spending and extravagant purchases could at first seem adventurous and daring, but they will gradually undermine one's riches and self-respect over time.

But going with the tried-and-true method is the most boring option. When you travel, staying with the herd will enable you to see the traditional, well-travelled locations. If you adopt other people's business or dating approaches, you'll develop a regular clientele. However, taking risks forces you to step outside of your comfort zone and use your imagination. When you take a chance, you have to come up with novel ideas and capture novel opportunities. By putting yourself in uncommon situations, taking chances enables you to develop unanticipated relationships. For instance, you typically are ignorant of how good two unrelated things may be unless you can combine them.

In conclusion, I still think that grabbing chances is far more productive and profitable in the long run, even though adopting a risk-taking attitude could have detrimental impacts on one's health and wealth.

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• Task 2 Essays

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The art of taking risks: breaking out of our comfort zone

• 29 December 2019
• Creativity / Wellbeing

The comfort zone is a phase where we find ourselves in a comfortable environment, and we know precisely the situation we’re getting into. Adventuring out of this frame of mind might seem scary, but science has discovered that it could have benefits on our mental health. Read along on the advantages of breaking out of your comfort zone and follow our quick guide to start immediately.

It’s easy to find routines comfortable. Knowing what we have to do and when we have to do it, gives us a certain level of confidence that things will result in the way we want them to. But doesn’t that make life boring? 

Given the amount of opportunities that we can make for ourselves, it should be easy to break out of a routine, but the fear within new adventures makes us slow down and play it safe. 

And let’s be clear, taking a risk doesn’t necessarily mean scheduling a bungee jump tomorrow.  It could be a small task that takes us out of our everyday routines, such as trying out new food, a new fashion style, or a different movie genre for once. 

The point is picking something new and maybe a little bit scary that startles the brain out of a monotonous day. Do you know where your comfort zone lies?

What is the comfort zone?

The comfort zone is a behavioral space where activities and actions fit a routine and pattern that reduces stress and risk. When discussing the subject Brené Brown, psychology author, speaker, and research professor at the University of Houston says: “Where our uncertainty, scarcity, and vulnerability are minimized—where we believe we’ll have access to enough love, food, talent, time, admiration, where we feel we have some control.” As it is a state that provides us with a certain amount of mental confidence, we can imply that it is the natural state that most people lean-to.

And let me make something clear, the comfort zone isn’t a good or bad thing, nor it is holding us back in life. The word ‘comfort’ is there for a reason, and it exists as a state of mind where our stress and anxiety levels are the least while performing a particular activity.

The perks of staying inside this state are rather obvious ones: regular happiness, low anxiety, and reduced stress. Of course, every level depends on the person, as both our anxiety and stress are different from everyone else’s. 

Back in 1908, psychologists M. Yerkes and D. Dodson explained that a state of relative comfort created a steady level of performance, hence the “comfort zone.” They experimented using mice and found that stimulation improved performance up to a certain level. When we pass that level and experience too much stress, performance deteriorates. This is what they called a state of “optimal anxiety.”

In search of Optimal Anxiety

Optimal anxiety is a headspace where the stress levels are slightly higher than normal or that feeling that we’re just outside of our comfort zone. 

When stepping out of our comfort zone, we may start to feel anxious and uneasy with the situation. Now, we must face two options about how to respond to this anxiety: suppress it or embrace it.

Sure, we can go ahead and think that we will not do well in that new taekwondo class; or that our precious story draft will be uninspiring and bland. But why not use this energy to improve rather than diminish our work? We can always shift attitudes and use this drive as fuel to perform better! 

According to the “Yerkes-Dodson Law,” performance increases with physiological and mental stress, anxiety, or arousal feelings. Additionally, research states that it’s easier to focus on these unknown tasks because of the challenge. Thus, we can use the extra motivation of doing something new and exciting even if it’s nervous energy! 

The main objective is to get to a level that forces an improvement in skills. We will eventually become comfortable with that recently acquired level of anxiety. This is what Alina Tugend defines as an “expanded comfort zone.” The new routine to follow is a “productive discomfort,” which helps to gradually decrease the scary sensation of trying different things until it eventually disappears.

Always keep this in mind: new and challenging tasks will keep us engaged easier. Just be sure not to go way overboard with the stress & anxiety of these new tasks, as it may diminish, instead of improving performance. Remember the rule of thumb: nothing in excess.

Escaping the comfort zone

Reaching that peak of mental productivity and performance brings certain benefits along, such as making us more productive; helping us to deal better with new and unexpected changes; making it easier to push our boundaries, and finding it effortless to exploit our creativity.

Of course, the personal benefits go further, taking into account that the new activities and skills we get into will upgrade our self-improvement. As you can see, there are way more benefits to breaking that comfort zone than staying in it, so let’s get into it and start broadening our horizons!

In case you need some guidance in how to push our boundaries, here are some suggestions for you: 

Take baby steps: Little by little is the way to go. Having a plan in place takes us to have crucial action. If your goal is to run a marathon, start with an achievable goal of a daily walking routine, and gradually step it up until you’re ready for those 42 K!

Be curious: Start researching new hobbies to get into or experiences to go for. Begin taking a baking course or start painting! Being curious to learn further opens lots of doors.

Give up control: Letting someone else take the lead is a great way to apply Optimal Anxiety. Not being in control of crucial decisions or agreeing to something we wouldn’t normally consider will take us out of the comfort zone.

Have a plan: Keep a list of growth goals, write down a step-by-step guide where you go from the easiest to the more complicated stuff, and be sure to keep it close by. When we get in the habit of reading our goals, we become more accountable to them.

Keep yourself accountable: This is a critical step because the idea of telling what we have achieved to people around us keeps us motivated. Also, when somebody else knows about our plans, they might help with that ‘push’ we need and make it hard to quit.

Taking creative risks

Taking a creative risk is a practice that can help us find the real magic of creativity. ⁠ Of course, one of the main characteristics of creative people is that they are risk-takers in the way that they like to challenge their thinking. They are not afraid to change their practices or being taken out of what is usual and known to them; hence they live way far out a comfort zone. 

To take creative risks means not minding what others think and having excitement to put out innovative ideas of their authorship into the world. 

So, because creativity is about something where we can’t anticipate or guarantee a specific outcome, being creative turns out to be all about taking risks. Talk about a risky and adventurous activity!

Just thinking about creativity immediately transports us out of a “safe zone.” And that is great for challenging our boundaries, for taking risks, and for being free! Don’t think too far. These creative risks can be as simple as attending a ballet performance, dancing, taking a creative writing course, joining a book club, learning to play a new instrument, or joining a watercolor workshop!

Remember that creativity means different things to different people, and the needs and results vary a lot. Just be sure to understand YOUR needs and the situations that will help you take the creative risks you look for.

In conclusion, pushing ourselves out of our comfort zone makes us challenge ourselves while helping us grow and taking new risks. Being somewhat uncomfortable for a moment can force us to achieve goals we never thought we would. 

Finding something new that’s not easy for us can be challenging, but the rewards will surely be worth it! Once we start stepping out and achieving new goals, we will realize that the comfort zone isn’t so comfortable after all.

Nevertheless, always remind yourself that while it’s great to break out of our safe zone, it’s also good to be able to go back whenever one needs to.

And now I ask you, when was the last time that you tried doing anything out of your comfort zone? ⁠

Do you think people in your workplace could get more out of their comfort zone by trying something new, such as a watercolor workshop that could help them relax and help them unleashing their creativity? Click here to request (more info on) a company watercolor workshop!

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IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Taking risks in professional and personal lives

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By ieltsnotes

IELTS Essay Question

Plan your answer.

Sample Answer

Taking risks is a normal part of life and it presents us with both opportunities and challenges . This essay will detail the reasons why the benefits of taking risks far outweigh the drawbacks.

In the business world, taking risks can open up the opportunity for unexpected growth. The website called makingsenseofcents.com is a great example. The owner of the website made a risky decision to quit her job and turn her blogging side hustle into a full-time career several years ago. This decision to step out of her comfort zone into the unknown has helped turned her blog into a multi-million-dollar business, which was something that she never expected when she started blogging. Taking risks also helps people conquer their fears in their everyday lives. For example, if someone afraid of public speaking took the opportunity to give a presentation in front of a crowd, it could help them to confront their fear and turn it into faith that they are capable of doing anything as long as they put in enough effort.

However, doing something risky might lead to failure if the risks involved are not properly calculated. Many people spend several years trying to turn their part-time blogging job into a successful business but fail and have to return to the nine-to-five rat race . Those years could have been better spent honing their skills at work, which might have helped them to climb the corporate ladder or be offered a pay rise. In addition, the courage to speak in front of a crowd in the above example might turn into a disaster if the speaker does not take the time to carefully prepare for the presentation. In some cases, this might be an opportunity for others to make fun of them and make them lose the courage to try public speaking again. However, these risks can be minimized if people carefully calculate the risks involved.

In conclusion, the benefits of taking risks, including exponential business growth and overcoming fear, outweigh any drawbacks because the chance of failure is reduced if people take calculated risks.

Useful vocabulary

• present somebody with something = to cause something such as a problem, threat, or opportunity
• side hustle = a part-time job that a person does as well as their regular job
• comfort zone = a situation in which you feel comfortable and in which your ability and determination are not being tested
• the unknown = a place, situation, or thing that is not known about or understood
• conquer something = to succeed in dealing with or controlling something
• be afraid of … = feeling fear; frightened because you think that you might be hurt or suffer
• be capable of … = having the ability or qualities necessary for doing something
• the rat race = a way of life in modern society, in which people compete with each other for power and money
• the corporate ladder = the proverbial climb up a company’s employment hierarchy, where career advancement is likened to climbing rungs on a ladder
• make fun of somebody/something = to make a joke about someone or something in a way that is not kind

IELTS Writing Task 1 Essay: Consumption of energy in the USA since 1980

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IELTS Essay Topic: It is important for people to take risks, in both their professional lives and personal lives.

• Updated on  
• May 22, 2023

Q- It is important for people to take risks, in both their professional lives and personal lives. Do the advantages of taking these risks outweigh the disadvantages?

Ans- The importance of risk-taking in both professional and personal aspects of life is a topic of great significance. While some argue that the benefits of taking risks outweigh the drawbacks, others highlight the potential disadvantages. This essay will examine how the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Taking risks offers several advantages. Firstly, it fosters personal growth and development. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing calculated risks can lead to the acquisition of new skills, increased confidence, and expanded capabilities. Secondly, risk-taking is often a catalyst for innovation and progress. Many scientific breakthroughs, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial successes have resulted from individuals and organizations daring to take risks. With embracing uncertainty, society may experience significant advancements. Lastly, taking risks allows individuals to seize opportunities that may lead to personal or professional success. By embracing uncertainty, individuals are more likely to experience new avenues of growth and achievements.

While the advantages of taking risks are compelling, it is crucial to weigh them against the potential disadvantages. One of the most significant perils is the possibility of failure and its associated consequences. Risk-taking involves a level of uncertainty, and not all risks yield positive outcomes. Failure can lead to financial loss, setbacks, and a decline in morale. Secondly, it can be accompanied by increased stress and anxiety. It thus becomes essential to learn to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and prudent decision-making, otherwise, it could lead to disastrous consequences. 

In conclusion, risk-taking plays a significant role in personal and professional lives and the benefits definitely overwhelm the drawbacks. The advantages, including personal growth, innovation, and seizing opportunities, highlight the importance of embracing uncertainty. However, the potential drawbacks, such as failure, stress, and reckless decision-making, should be taken into account. By assessing risks carefully, individuals can harness the advantages while minimizing the potential disadvantages, allowing them to navigate the path to success with confidence.

Outline statement:  The importance of risk-taking in both professional and personal aspects of life is a topic of great significance.

Paraphrased statement:  While some argue that the benefits of taking risks outweigh the drawbacks, others highlight the potential disadvantages. 

Thesis statement:  This essay will examine the advantages and disadvantages of risk-taking and provide an analysis of whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Body paragraph 1-Topic sentence: Taking risks offers several advantages. 

Body paragraph 1- Supporting evidence: Firstly, it fosters personal growth and development. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing calculated risks can lead to the acquisition of new skills, increased confidence, and expanded capabilities. Secondly, risk-taking is often a catalyst for innovation and progress. 

Body paragraph 1- Analysis: Many scientific breakthroughs, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial successes have resulted from individuals and organizations daring to take risks. Without embracing uncertainty, society may miss out on significant advancements. Lastly, taking risks allows individuals to seize opportunities that may lead to personal or professional success. By embracing uncertainty, individuals are more likely to experience new avenues of growth and achievements.

Body paragraph 2- Topic sentence: While the advantages of taking risks are compelling, it is crucial to weigh them against the potential disadvantages. 

Body paragraph 2- Supporting evidence: One of the most significant perils is the possibility of failure and its associated consequences. Risk-taking involves a level of uncertainty, and not all risks yield positive outcomes. Failure can lead to financial loss, setbacks, and a decline in morale. 

Body paragraph 2- Analysis:  Secondly, it can be accompanied by increased stress and anxiety. It thus becomes essential to learn to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and prudent decision-making, otherwise, it could lead to disastrous consequences. 

Conclusion: In conclusion, risk-taking plays a significant role in personal and professional lives and the benefits definitely overwhelm the drawbacks. The advantages, including personal growth, innovation, and seizing opportunities, highlight the importance of embracing uncertainty. However, the potential drawbacks, such as failure, stress, and reckless decision-making, should be taken into account. By assessing risks carefully, individuals can harness the advantages while minimizing the potential disadvantages, allowing them to navigate the path to success with confidence.

Vocabulary 

The importance of risk-taking in both professional and personal aspects of life is a topic of great significance . While some argue that the benefits of taking risks outweigh the drawbacks, others highlight the potential disadvantages. This essay will examine the advantages and disadvantages of risk-taking and provide an analysis of whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Taking risks offers several advantages. Firstly, it fosters personal growth and development. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing calculated risks can lead to the acquisition of new skills, increased confidence, and expanded capabilities. Secondly, risk-taking is often a catalyst for innovation and progress. Many scientific breakthroughs , technological advancements, and entrepreneurial successes have resulted from individuals and organizations daring to take risks. Without embracing uncertainty, society may miss out on significant advancements. Lastly, taking risks allows individuals to seize opportunities that may lead to personal or professional success. By embracing uncertainty, individuals are more likely to experience new avenues of growth and achievements.

While the advantages of taking risks are compelling , it is crucial to weigh them against the potential disadvantages. One of the most s ignificant perils is the possibility of failure and its associated consequences . Risk-taking involves a level of uncertainty , and not all risks yield positive outcomes. Failure can lead to financial loss, setbacks , and a decline in morale . Secondly, it can be accompanied by increased stress and anxiety. It thus becomes essential to learn to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and prudent decision-making, otherwise, it could lead to disastrous consequences. 

In conclusion, risk-taking plays a significant role in personal and professional lives and the benefits definitely overwhelm the drawbacks. The advantages, including personal growth, innovation, and seizing opportunities, highlight the importance of embracing uncertainty. However, the potential drawbacks , such as failure, stress, and reckless decision-making, should be taken into account. By assessing risks carefully, individuals can harness the advantages while minimizing the potential disadvantages, allowing them to navigate the path to success with confidence.

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It is important for people to take risks IELTS writing task 2

A new IELTS writing task 2 essay from recent IELTS exam. IELTS game expert will provide you with band 9 answer.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Question

It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives. Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

Band 9 answer

Taking risks is an inherent part of human nature, and it is often necessary for people to take risks in order to achieve their goals and realize their full potential. While there are certainly advantages to taking risks, there are also potential disadvantages that should be considered. Ultimately, whether the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages depends on the individual circumstances and the specific risks being taken.

One of the main advantages of taking risks is that it can lead to significant rewards and opportunities. For example, in the professional world, taking risks can lead to promotions, higher salaries, and more challenging and rewarding work. In the personal realm, taking risks can lead to new experiences, relationships, and personal growth. For example, taking the risk of traveling to a new country or trying a new hobby can be enriching and fulfilling experiences that may not have been possible without taking the risk.

However, there are also potential disadvantages to taking risks. For instance, taking risks can lead to failure or disappointment, which can be emotionally and financially draining. In the professional world, taking risks can also lead to job loss or career setbacks, which can be difficult to recover from. Additionally, taking risks can sometimes lead to physical harm or danger, and it is important to carefully weigh the potential risks and rewards before making a decision.

In my own experience, I have found that the advantages of taking risks generally outweigh the disadvantages. For instance, I have taken the risk of pursuing a challenging academic program and a demanding career.

(300 words)

Task analysis

The response to the task above is written at a Band 9 level because it effectively addresses the prompt and provides a well-developed and well-supported argument. The essay presents both sides of the argument about whether the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages and provides relevant examples and evidence to support the points made. The ideas are logically structured and the essay includes a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

The language used in the essay is appropriate for an academic context and demonstrates a good range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. The writer uses a variety of synonyms and avoids repeating the same words and phrases, which helps to make the writing more engaging and varied. The writer also avoids using slang or colloquial language, which is not appropriate for an academic essay.

Overall, the essay is well-written and demonstrates a strong understanding of the topic. It meets the requirements of the task and provides a thorough and well-supported analysis of the issue. With some minor revisions to address any language or phrasing issues, the essay could potentially achieve a Band 9 score in the IELTS writing test.

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Taking risks.

Every once in a while in one’s life come challenges. These challenges can be so daunting and demanding that it places the person in not just a weird external state but also a peculiar state of mind. There are hardly any people in the world who make it a point in their life to take steps that are too farfetched or have stakes that are too high. Almost every individual finds it easier and more convenient to take steps that are safe and secure them for the present and for the future.

Anyone who has spent even a year in the practical world would agree that this is not how life can be lived. The entire essence of life demands people to challenge themselves and push themselves off the edge just to see if they can fly – that is the true meaning of life. When one dives into a situation where the end point or the result is unknown and cannot even be anticipated based on the current circumstances, it means they are taking a risk. These are not hard core decisions but mere choices that individuals have to take because they pose a better likelihood in the future. It cannot be claimed that if one has a safe job, they will always remain employed and have complete job security. An unstable and an unconventional job might become a constant source of income for several people. The entire questions falls on one question; “Are you willing to take the risk?”

Some people might also claim that taking a risk and having it result in a positive outcome has a lot to do with fate and luck. Though this might be true for various people, but in some cases, where the decision lies in another human and not on fate, taking a bold risk exemplifies your confidence in yourself and that is a valuable but rare quality in humans.

Hence, if you have a risk to take and are torn between a safe and a risky option, tell yourself this:

• The risk you are willing to take might give you a once in a lifetime chance to explore not just your abilities and potentials but also to live your dream.
• Taking a risk and actually have it work out for you might make you feel more confident about your own abilities and make you feel good about the things you can achieve in life.
• Taking a risk makes it easier for you to come up with ideas and innovations that you were too scared to try and test before.
• Taking a risk opens up an entire new world of possibilities for you. It makes you feel like there is no end to your passion.
• Above all, taking a risk is the best way to overcome your own weaknesses and confusions.

Hence, risk taking is a core element of human life and human existence.

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