Open the door: the four pillars of bold risk-taking in life and business

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By Martin Bouza

January 9, 2024

Life can be a bit like a game show, right? We know what’s going on behind door number one, but there are other doors waiting to be opened. What’s behind them? Well, that’s the mystery, and what pushes us to open them is our relationship with risk.

I’ve been thinking a lot about why some people are risk-averse while others are risk-takers. Risk is everywhere, from building relationships to chasing after a job or diving into entrepreneurship to shape our own destiny. Risk-taking doesn’t always mean stepping out of your comfort zone. Even within the familiar, like a professional going solo, you can take risks.

After considering many variables, I’ve boiled it down to four key pillars:

  1. A natural urge to take risks: Some folks are just wired that way, maybe even biologically. 
  2. An inner drive: Something inside you pushing you to prove something, either to others or yourself.
  3. Knowing what you’re getting into: Whether it’s having the technical know-how, expertise, experience, or having a mentor to guide you.
  4. Self-confidence: Believing you can bounce back, no matter how many times you get knocked down, because setbacks are just part of the game.

Think about that person you know who sticks to the script, afraid to explore new possibilities. Sometimes I feel kind of sad because their lives could be so much richer if they dared to step out, and they could shed incredible light into the world. Maybe these folks are too pessimistic, missing out on seeing the opportunities around them. Or maybe they just lack one of these pillars. One thing I know for sure, pessimism is contagious, and for an entrepreneur, it’s crucial not to let it drag you down.

When you embark on the entrepreneurial journey, you’re signing up for a world of challenges -as well as gains-. It’ll consume your emotions and energy, but the potential payoff is huge. Arionkoder, for example, was born during the pandemic. Challenges were everywhere, but we kept pushing because we had a purpose. Your “why” in entrepreneurship is closely tied to your drive, and it acts as a guide to turn that energy into something tangible.

As Rocky Balboa wisely said, “But it ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward.” Changing reality isn’t just about doing things; it’s about standing tall when life throws punches, gathering the pieces, learning, and growing stronger.

So, if you’re like me, open to taking risks that shape reality, here’s my advice: say yes. Embrace the opportunities around you, learn from them, and dare to try things you never imagined. This is how you carve your path and make a lasting impact.

Join us as we take risks to build the future, one product at a time. Say yes to the adventure!