Photography and Taking Risks

"If no one ever took risks, Michelangelo would have painted the Sistine floor."

© alphaspirit - Fotolia.com

It's a quote by playwright, Neil Simon, but it got me thinking about how many times we've all decided not do something, because it was too risky. In our minds we weighed all the options and so often have exaggerated the real risks. We chose to hold back, because we were afraid of failing.

I've written a few times about my own experience of leaving Rangefinder/WPPI over five years ago and Sheila saying to me, "So, what are you afraid of?" My response was just one word, "Failing!"

Well, here I am today, business is growing and every day is more exciting than the previous one. I wake up smiling every morning and my definition of "success" has been completely redefined. It's all about being happy.

So, this is a short post and perfect for a Friday...don't let your fears hold you back. Appreciate them for what they are, speed bumps to help you slow down. Appreciate the warning signs of risky decisions, but utilize your network and all your experiences to help you follow through. Most important of all, learn to listen to your heart.

And here's the best part - when you do make a wrong decision, nothing is forever. Start again and take another shot at doing it better next time.

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"You miss a hundred percent of the shots you don't take!'
Wayne Gretzky