When was the last time you stepped out of your comfort zone and took a risk?  Have you ever started a conversation with a stranger, stood up for yourself in the workplace, tried a new activity with your spouse, or changed your daily routine?  If you are like the majority of the population, then you probably have not taken many risks.  Safety comes with routine and structure.  Predictability seems to calm nerves and anxiety.  Expectation of another's behavior is often desired.  Life seems simplistic when risk is not involved. 

I wonder what you miss out on by not taking risks.  Did you pass an opportunity to make a new friend?  Are you being taken advantage of at work because you keep your opinions to yourself?  Could you possibly mend a broken relationship with a spouse by taking a risk and trying something new?  Is your life boring because you follow the same routine and structure each day?  What could you gain by taking a small risk?  

If you find yourself stuck in a routine, lacking excitement, or needing a change try some of the options below.  You may surprise yourself by taking a risk.

1. Smile and say hello to an acquaintance at work or home you do not know well. 
2. Begin a conversation with someone.
3. Take a walk with your spouse instead of watching television together.
4. Drive a different route to work.
5. Bring something different for lunch or find a new restaurant to try.
6. Leave work early if you always stay late.
7. Plan a vacation (even if it's a day trip to the park).
8. Give your kids a hug.
9. Laugh with your family.
10. Give someone a compliment.

Take a week or two and try some of the suggestions above.  Be curious about others' reactions and how it makes you feel to take a risk.  Start small and see what happens. 

What if I'm too nervous to take a risk?

If you find yourself nervous or anxious about taking a risk, try to imagine yourself taking a risk and the possible outcomes of taking risks before interacting with others.  Ask yourself to visualize the best and worst outcomes of taking a risk.  Are you afraid that you will be rejected by someone if you start a conversation with them?  Are you nervous that your spouse will respond negatively to you?  What is keeping you from taking the risk?  Ask yourself what you could gain by taking the risk.  Would you make a new friend?  Would your spouse be excited to try something new with you?  What would you like to see happen by taking the risk?

How will I know I'm ready to take a risk?

Taking risks is scary by nature because you cannot predict the outcome of the situation.  Notice when you feel extremely anxious about taking a risk and ask yourself if you feel safe enough to take the risk.  If not, then you probably are not ready.  Take time and allow your anxiety to lower before taking a risk.  Feeling safe and less anxious is an important indicator that you are ready to take a risk. 

If you find yourself extremely anxious and afraid to take minor risks most of the time, I encourage you to speak with a professional counselor in your area.  This may be a sign of something more significant happening in your life.  The Lotus Group understands the difficulties of life.  I encourage you to take a risk and call us today.

Kristie L. Watts          Lotus Group    Fisher, IN        595-5555         www.lotusgroup.biz