Risk

Merriam-Webster OnLine defines Risk as:

Pronunciation: 'risk
Function: noun
Etymology: French risque, from Italian risco
1 : possibility of loss or injury : PERIL
2 : someone or something that creates or suggests a hazard
3 a : the chance of loss or the perils to the subject matter of an insurance contract; also : the degree of probability of such loss b : a person or thing that is a specified hazard to an insurer [a poor risk for insurance] c : an insurance hazard from a specified cause or source
- risk·less  /'ris-kl&s/ adjective
- at risk : exposed to a usually specified danger or loss [patients at risk of infection]

OK, so now that we have a basic definition to be on the same playing ground, I'd like to talk about how I see risk. Or more aptly, what I think is missing from this definition. The reason to accept risk. We often hear the phrase, nothing risked, nothing gained. Some might call this gambling. Others see it as business or even sport. You risk because the goal is something worthwhile. A person's ability to overcome fear of failure or loss defines the limits of risk they will assume. For a Million Dollars you might accept a huge amount of Risk. Whereas for $10,000 you might assume very little. Then again, depending on your need (or perceived need) you might go all out for $10,000 or even $500. You might accept public humiliation or degradation to get further ahead financially.

Socially, how willing are you to risk? A lot? A little? Assume there is a cutie you see on a regular basis. How far are you willing to go to attempt to create a liaison with them? Does the fact that you know or don't know them factor into your thought process? Does distance enter into the equation? For true love, are you willing to accept a huge risk in many areas with the payoff being the partner you crave?

Are there other rewards that you Risk for? Public recognition, personal satisfaction, kind words, career progression? What tops your list for Risks you will accept? What kind of rewards do you seek? Are they worth it? Are there things you could seek that would potentially bring greater fulfillment? Does your fear hold you back from achieving your dreams when the Risk isn't that great?