How do you think about risk? What role has taking risks played in your life/career? Check out responses from hidden gems from our community below.

Zerric Clinton | Author of The Power of Popular Culture in Education: History, Music, and Visual Imagery

Well risk taking to me is just a part of really living. If we just do the same thing day in and day out are we really living or just existing? Personally, I don’t believe that people are on earth just to exist. Without risk their is nothing new that happens and if that is the case how do we as people make progress. When I am considering a new endeavor I often think of this quote by Frederick Douglass, “Without a struggle, there can be no progress.” Read more>>

Sonny Meraki | Artist/Songwriter

If anyone takes a risk, it should, firstly, have an underlying positive purpose & intention. Risk taking often involves removal of/from comfort zones, which in turn is important for personal growth and development. I would also encourage any individual to be mindful of the timing when taking risks. Timing is vital in life. I personally took a huge risk leaving my full time job at the end of 2020 (during COVID) to pursue my musical career. Read more>>

Char Miller-King | Woodshop Instructor/Content Creator

I took a giant leap of faith and it paid off. I often jokingly say I am a motivational speaker, encouraging anyone who will listen to follow their dreams at whatever cost. In 2003, I made my first project out of wood, a bed. I was a recent graduate without furniture or the means to purchase any. After three months of trial and error, I completed it and slept on it for seven years. Read more>>

Rodney Roldan | Actor and Documentary Filmmaker

As with many career choices, there are often risks associated with the path one takes. As I look back at my own journey, there were several risks and challenges that I was aware and some that I wasn’t. As an artist, I learned things about myself that kept me going in pursuing my dream, such as learning to be open to new experiences, developing a higher level of resiliency, and further committing to my craft. Read more>>

Ricquélle Badger | Artist

I believe risk taking is essential in being successful. I’m sure we’ve all heard the phrase “Big risk, big reward” well I’m definitely a testament to that. Nothing in life worth having is going to be easy to obtain and maintain. You have to put forth effort and hard work consistently. The grind doesn’t stop. It’s a risk to put yourself out there for the world to watch, critique, and judge. Read more>>

Lailah J | Entrepreneur, Nail Technician, Model

When I think about risk, I think “if there’s no risk, there’s no reward”. in life and in my career they’re will always be situations where you will have to take risk if that’s starting a new business, partnering with a new business or person, moving to another state etc. bit without risk you won’t know what can come out of that situation good or bad. Read more>>

Khaila Williams | Ultra-Petite Fashion Model

Taking *calculated* risks is what I do. From the day I entered this life, I’ve bet on myself (even sometimes unknowingly) and each time, it proves to be beneficial. I believe that taking risks and doing what I feel is right for myself is what has ultimately helped me on my journey to self-realization. Doctors have always told me “don’t do this” or “you probably shouldn’t do that,” but so far, I’ve done it and prevailed. Read more>>