The teen years are often characterized by impulsive behavior and unwise choices. Statistics tell us that many teens engage in unprotected sex, binge drinking, drug use, and violent altercations – dangerous risks. Of course this is not the case for everyone and I choose to focus on the notion that we can help youth take calculated risks. We can encourage our youth to take calculated risks. We can encourage them to boldly pursue their dreams despite their current circumstances. We can empower them to leave the safety of their comfort zones for the satisfaction of goal achievement.
Calculated risks are thought out and have the potential to lead to a better quality of life. Success takes action. Our level of success in any endeavor is directly related to the level of risk we are able to endure. We have to leave our comfort zones in order to progress. Courage is necessary if we want to move forward.
In order to determine whether a risk is dangerous or smart, we must first know what it is that we want to achieve. We must also determine if we will not only benefit from a favorable outcome but be able to increase our chances of success with a not so favorable outcome. It seems smart to risk falling off a balance beam if you want to become an Olympic gymnast. If your goal is to become a published author then entering your work in a short story contest seems like a good idea. Successful people take risks that move them in the direction of their dreams. Small actions can lead to big results. A calculated risk taker may not always obtain the intended goal but they don’t immediately throw in the towel. A calculated risk taker may make mistakes along the way but they gain confidence with every obstacle they overcome, every problem they solve, and every milestone they achieve.
