Shoot your shot? Take a chance? Society bombards us with messages, phrases, examples and stories of how taking risk is the key to success, but is anything ever that simple? We asked some of the brightest folks we know to tell us about how they think about risk. We’ve shared their responses below.

Yona Simons

During undergrad, I had the fortunate opportunity to meet a multi millionaire while working as a lifeguard at that Greenville aquatic center. This individual would swim every morning at 5 am. At the end of his daily sessions he would leave me with tips, these tips would vary based on the lesson he wanted to teach me. Read More>>

Todd Patriani

I strongly believe taking risk is an important part of life. Risk is uncomfortable, being uncomfortable requires changing perspective and requires action to complete your goal. I also strongly believe you cannot be looking to succeed without taking risk. Risk is more than just spending resources, it’s getting out of your comfort zone, doing things you have not done before and willing to fail over and over again until you get it right. Taking risk builds confidence in oneself to complete the mission.  Read More>>

John Anthony

I think risk-taking is one of the most important things in the process of excelling. Taking risks can sometimes align with having faith. Not knowing exactly what is going to happen or come of the steps that you are taking, but knowing that the reward is great. I see it as a spiritual thing that has opened doors for me. I am from rural southwest Georgia, a place where goals and dreams can be somewhat fuzzy. Read More>>

Cyd Simmons

I have worked in the veterinarian field for 20 years before I began my working in the hair care industry. I began working part time as a stylist on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday and noticed the potential of my creativity and desire for quality work and healthy hair, I started going to barber school. While working a full-time job, part-time job, and going to school, I took a leap of faith and quit my full-time job to fulfill my newfound passion with hair care. Read More>>

Ubri Holmes

I’ve always been a risk taker. We’ve all heard the term, “scared money don’t make money.” I grew to realize that taking risks are actually an act of faith. Moreover, you can’t be afraid to fail. Inside every loss is a lesson. At this point in my life, it’s true that yes I’m a risk taker but now I take more calculated risks. Read More>>

Dr. Meredith Jones

I see risk as a necessary part of growth…personally, professionally, and everything in between. You’re never truly evolving if you’re not at least a little uncomfortable. One of the biggest risks I took was opening my own practice. I walked away from a stable paycheck and trusted that I could create something better; knowing the quality of care I could give and the energy I pour into what I believe in. Read More>>