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

Ashley Jones | Founder & Executive Director

No one has ever told me to think bigger. I’m a dreamer who believes I can change the world, so risk is a natural part of that journey. The bigger the risk, the bigger the reward (and the loss too). I make calculated decisions based on the risk and information on hand. Although I don’t want to do anything reckless, I know that the world wasn’t changed by playing it safe. I am not going to let fear prevent me from achieving big things. Read more>>

Kelcy Rainer | Therapeutic Program Director

Safety and success are heavily weighed on risk management in my profession as Therapeutic Program Director at Chastain Horse Park. I hold my PATH Intl. Advanced Therapeutic Riding Instructor with PATH Intl. CTRI certification. PATH Intl.,– Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International–is a credentialing organization in the Equine Assisted Activities and Therapies industry that promotes and ensures excellence by providing education, certifications, and standards. Read more>>

Krystal Amoy | Entrepreneur & CPA

I think of risk as a necessary component of a fulfilling life. Risk allows me to experience my fullest potential, gain the highest rewards, and feel proud of myself. I simply consider anything that pushes me outside my comfort zone to be a risk, ie risk of failure, risk of loss, risk of embarrassment, etc. These risks are very real. Even likely in some circumstances. But I found that even in the worst case scenario, the outcome is not the end of the world. It’s usually my response to the outcome that is the worst of it. Read more>>

Hannah Jane | Designer and Artist

When it comes to risk taking, a variety of elements come into play. I feel like the meaning of risk is different in all of our lives as we have different fears and challenges. Risk taking has played a huge role in my career and brand Art of Hannah Jane. It has came into play as I have pushed and defined my own narrative. Pursing a career as yourself can feel extremely vulnerable and the risk comes with the uncertainty it brings while in hope of accomplishing your goals. I have taken many risks as I have defined my career. Read more>>

Adrian Thomas | Photographer & Crewthick Member

I think taking risk is a part of everyday life. If you are not taking risk than you are not living. Risk plays a major part in being successful not only in your career, but in life. Life is about taking chances, regardless of the outcome you can still learn from the situation. Taking risks has and still to this day a major part in the development of my career. An example would be when my crewthick members and I travel to a new city. The risk we take is being in unfamiliar condition, time constraints, etc. but it’s all worth it for the great images and time we spend with each other. Read more>>