Finally you begin to realize that the safest thing you can do feels risky and the riskiest thing you can do is play it safe. – Seth Godin / Tribes
I recently completed reading the book Tribes by Seth Godin. A unique, but practical look at the world we live in and the need for leadership. The citation above has stuck with me since I read it last week. It just won’t go away.
This reality is that we need to realize that “playing it safe” is in and of its self risky. There is no sure thing. The world we live is subject to rapid change, much faster then we even realize and is often out of our control. To expect the status quo to remain isn’t very realistic. It’s in fact safer to expect and plan for change and embrace it.
Most all of us have felt some discomfort, particularly in the past year or two. Over the years I’ve had people approach me and ask my input on issues they are facing in their lives. Some are entrepreneurs who have felt the sting of a shifting economy and the challenges of a struggling business. A few have been at a crossroads in their personal lives.
For some of us, continuing on the road we are on feels risky, when maybe staying the course makes the most sense. For others, we are stuck in a spot, paralyzed by fear, unsure what to do, even though we know we need to do something. We see that from time to time with our home buyers. Some of them know they need to make a move, but a move feels risky. For others, they recognize the riskiest thing is to do nothing.
Expect change, expect some risk, really it’s OK. Embracing a certain level of risk maybe the new security? I’m interested in what you think, is playing it safe really safe?
Brian Gentry ~ Landed Gentry Homes & Communities
