Risky Business

Without risk, there isn’t opportunity.

I heard that somewhere lately, and it struck a chord.  I don’t like risk. I avoid risk. Just the thought of losing anything I've worked hard for shakes my inherent need for inner balance and peace. You won't ever see me in Vegas - I don’t even open ‘em first to know when to fold ‘em.

How much of a risk-taker are you? On a scale of 1-5 
(5 being the ultimate in risk-ocity), where would you fall?

Okay, I’ll admit, I’ve taken some risks. But not without a ridiculous level of scrutiny and risk-factor analysis. And even with that, my “gut-feeling” is the ultimate rubber-stamper. It’s either good vibes or a no-go.

Business risks are even worse for me - a different animal entirely. I envy those who take huge chances in belief of even bigger gain. Enterpreneurs, inventors, business owners, stock market players. When they lose, they lose big. But when they win, man, they know a financial freedom I can only dream about.

And yet, here I am, suddenly stepping for the first time into a business venture. Suddenly those usual aversions to anything risky, or anything “business” for that matter, are thrown out the window. I’m open. Excited about the possibilities. This thing must have potential for success because that inner voice isn’t holding me back.

I’ve wanted to write a children’s book - that’s part of it. Wanted to make some kind of contribution to the world - that’s a part, too. And of course, any improvement to my financial status would be heartily welcome. And just as well, I’ve found a great business companion whose approach and talents mirror my own. Talk about good vibrations.

“Without risk, there IS no opportunity." Well, opportunity’s a-knockin’, and I’m just gonna let it in.

And you? Are you a risk-taker? What is the greatest risk you’ve ever taken? How are you when it comes to business risk? Come on, write in. I need to know I’m not the only one!


photo by Ellie at Flickr.com

Are You Money Wise?

The root of all evil - what's your take on it?

They say you learn your attitudes toward money from your parents. Well, that sure explains it. My father was a depression-era, work hard and you'll earn a decent living kind of guy. He never took risks, neither in business nor investments. He saved relatively little and basically lived for the day. Pretty interesting for a public accountant with six kids, ha?.

My mother, on the other hand, was the traditional good wife. She never held money in her pocket of her own; never learned how to use a checkbook. My father made all the big money decisions. She was (supposedly) happy to be taken care of.

So where does that put me? I'm my father all the way. I've earned a nice middle, sometimes upper-middle kind of life, but always way too short a distance from getting over my head. I invest little and conservatively, and have no business sense whatsoever.

So what's the deal? When I really get down to it, it's all about fear. Stocks, bonds, investments, business, sales, marketing - they all intimidate the hell out of me. And guess what? I've finally come to the point where that very fact ticks me off.

I know I need to open my mind - loosen up and see the benefits of being money wise. Cultivate a business attitude. I've been dealing in human services for so long - getting a secure paycheck and health coverage - but now I don't have that security anymore. What if I want to start a new career? Make some money for the long future ahead? At this rate, I wouldn't know where to begin. But one thing's for sure - I know it has to start in my head.

And what about you? Are you money wise? Do you have any advice to foster a new attitude? Help!