Taking a chance can be nerve-wracking, especially if we are attempting something new that takes us out of our comfort zone. As worrisome as risk-taking might be, I’ve recently learned that the potential reward gained is worth the risk.
I’ve been doing a lot of inner work to move through fear of rejection and failure. One big step I took as part of this exercise was to apply for graduate school in Hungary. I don’t speak Hungarian and have no ties to the country, so this felt like a huge risk to me.
For the last several months, I’ve anxiously waited and worried about whether I was good enough. I even turned down major jobs advances that would have taken me from a small town to a GIANT city because I was banking my hopes on getting into school. I was so excited when I found out last week that my risk had paid off –not only was I accepted into the school, but I also received a full tuition award!
If you don’t take risks, you can’t reap rewards. It may seem scary, but taking risks is the only way to achieve big dreams. When we step outside our comfort zones, we realize our capabilities. In trying new things, we fulfill the part of our minds that seeks adventure. I didn’t think that hitting submit on a graduate school application was an adventure until my inbox pinged with a ton of things I need to do before September, including flying to Washington DC to get a visa and learning how to say “help me” in Hungarian.
If you seek something that seems too far away or too difficult to achieve, remember that you are not alone. We can all rely on each other for encouragement as we take big risks. You would not be the first person to leave their job in order to fulfill a dream, to take the plunge and write a book, or to conquer their fears. We can all learn from each other and help each other along our personal journeys to happiness.
The road to happiness and a joyful life starts with taking risks. Knowing what you want, and willingness to make personal life changes (including taking risks), is the best way to make room for living the life of your dreams. Yes, I risked rejection, but in the end I’m so glad I did because the reward is worth it!
Reflection
What risk have you been putting off?
Are you ready for the reward?
Menjünk! Let’s go!
Tara Riggs is a reliable and resourceful virtual assistant managing social media platforms and InfusionSoft communications for Sheila Callaham, as well as other clients. Key skills she brings to the table include data reporting, email marketing, and a deep knowledge of twitter management. Tara is based out of Asheville, North Carolina where she runs Eunis Jean Media with her puggle, Eunis Jean. Follow her on twitter at @tarariggs. Tara is accepting new clients at this time.
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