Risk is at the Heart of Life, Leadership

Nothing compelling can happen until someone takes on risk. Period. The V-word (vulnerability) is picking up steam in pop-culture for good reason. Afterall, being in the world and doing difficult work is a vulnerable act in and of itself.

It’s interesting how both necessary risk is to accomplish anything in life and that, as humans, we’re hard wired for safety. Our central nervous system is working subconsciously 24/7 to spot threats and maintain our livelihood. And, you’ll need to override that system on some level for everything you want in your love life, career, and lifestyle. 

This is why we view life’s most meaningful pursuits as a leadership issue.

There are three truths that get us to this understanding:

1. Our definition says that to be in leadership is to be accountable to the results.
2. Results are specifically never fully in our control. 
3. Taking on responsibility is inherently risky. 

In short, you can either have safety from being vulnerable or you can participate in leadership by taking the risk. I hope you choose the latter.