Do you consider yourself to be a person who always plays it safe? If yes, are you experiencing the best life possible? Chances are, if you routinely choose not to take chances, you haven't achieved your dreams, and are not living the lifestyle that you have always wanted. The Benefits With every risk, there is a chance that good things will happen. If you take a chance that could lead to something good, that good thing may happen. Starting a business, for example, can prove to be the source of financial freedom for you. Asking that person out for a date may lead to marriage (eventually). Taking risks can make you a better person. If you can face the fears that would hold you back from achieving your goals, it can build your confidence. Learning to embrace possibility can make you a more positive and energetic person. Sometimes, taking a chance, regardless of how crazy it seems, can make your life more enjoyable. Trying new things that you have always wanted to try, but were too afraid, can free your spirit. The Danger Factor Of course, there is a possibility that things won't go as planned. Your business could fail. The person you like, could reject you. Yes, these things could happen. There would be no such thing as a risk if there were nothing to lose. The key is not to dwell on the negative possibilities, but the positive ones. The most difficult part about taking risks is knowing that something bad could happen. In fact, it is this danger factor that keeps people from ever stepping out and making the moves, that could lead them to success, happiness, and freedom. Preparing yourself for the negative, can ease the pain if things go wrong. Sometimes, there are ways to minimize the danger. Educating yourself about what you plan to do can help. There is a fine line between preparing for a negative outcome and expecting one. If you plan well, sometimes you can avoid the danger. For example, starting a business can have minimal risk if you create a solid plan and do your research. Learn the difference between good and bad risks. Calculate what you could lose, and make sure that you can do without whatever it is you may lose. Is it truly worth it? Consider others in your life who are important to you. Taking risks can be wonderful, but not at someone else's expense. Why should you take certain risks anyway? You will never know until you put yourself out there and try. Give yourself a fair chance. If you fail you fail, but if you succeed, you succeed! Not taking the chance, that could bring you what you want in life, can haunt you in the form of regret. Every great success story includes some risk-taking. If you want to reach your goals and dreams, the choice is yours.