Have you ever wanted to take a risk, but been too afraid?

“Sometimes all you need is 20 seconds of insane courage. Just literally 20 seconds of embarrassing bravery and I promise you. Something great will come out of it”. This quote is from the movie We Bought A Zoo and it has stuck with me since the movie debuted in 2011.

Taking risks is terrifying to all of us, but it is time we let go of that fear and take some chances. I have taken risks by going out of state for college and interning in a town where I knew nobody. Like the quote reminds us, great things came from both of those risks.

Stop wondering about the what if’s and live a little. Everybody gets caught up in the tasks of everyday life and before we know it, it is the next day. Sometimes we have to push everything aside, take the risk, and find that we are happier than if we had done nothing.

Take control of your own life. When you play it safe, you’re following into this uneventful path left by society. The reality is that life is not fulfilling when you do not take risks.

As cliché as it sounds, you will never know the outcome of something until you try it. You may know other people, who have gone through similar situations, but the reality is, they are not you. Take the risk and discover how new things are without the biases of other.

Quite overanalyzing. It is a part of our human nature to overthink things without realizing it. Now that you know you are overthinking, stop. There is nothing wrong with contemplating a situation, but do not let your thoughts, concerns, and any other worries prevent you from taking a risk that could improve your life.

Nobody will take risks for you. It is up to you to create the changes you want within your life. People can encourage you like I am now, but ultimately nobody can make you take any chances. You are in charge of your own path. Do not be afraid to take detours.

Seize the endless opportunities. Think about all those times that somebody told you about something they did and you thought that would be an amazing experience. That can be you. All you have to do is be willing to try new things.

Proceed with caution. As important as it is to take risks and create a meaningful life for yourself, you cannot be careless. Be smart. Take actions that will better your life and the lives of those around you, without risking safety. It’s not about being wild and crazy. It is about providing opportunities for yourself.

Risks are learning opportunities. Be brave and step out of your comfort zone. Everybody gets comfortable in his or her own safety bubbles. Break out of the barrier and try something you have always wanted to try. Make those opportunities yours, just like I did when I took an internship far away from everybody I know. If I can be courageous, so can you.

It won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.