There is a wealth of academic research that suggests that differences in risk appetite are at the heart of differences in career and business trajectories. We wanted to go beyond the theory and ask real people from the community about their perspectives and experiences with risk and risk taking.

Dave Szalay | Visual Storyteller, Designer, Educator

Taking calculated risk is the secret to my successes. I’ve never done well when I’m bored or under challenged, so I’ve learned to venture into the unknown, and it has always paid off. I didn’t succeed immediately every time, but I always learned and advanced in some way. I’m essentially overcoming my insecurities with each leap of faith. It’s scary, but necessary for my progress. My biggest risks seem to come about every ten years. Read more>>

Charity Shellabarger | Small Business Lifestyle Boutique Owner and Interior Designer

Risk, for me has always been a scary thing. I would much rather stay comfortable or in my safe place than take a risk; I feel like that’s human nature to want to be comfortable, right or is that just me? However, I have learned in order to grow and continue in the business world, taking risks are not an “if” but a “when”. Risks are where and when growth happens. Sometimes the risks come out on the other side very successful and sometimes they don’t but you would not have known unless you took the risk. Read more>>

Mary DeNunzio | Cottage Baker

There have been many times in my life where I’ve changed directions. Ive never been afraid to take risks as far as what I think will make me happy and provide an income at the same time. I started out as a hairdresser. And while I enjoyed that, I did not enjoy having a set schedule. So, I started doing hair from my home, and worked when I wanted to work. It was a fun, creative outlet for me. But, after awhile I wanted to do something different. So, I went back into a structured setting and worked at a real estate office. Read more>>