The Element of Risk: What You Do - or Don't Do

by Chris Waugh

How do you think of risk? Do you think of danger, something to avoid? A gamble? A chance only an idiot or a thrill seeker would enjoy taking, like hang gliding? Well, I am a hang glider pilot, and I can affirm it’s risky. I can also tell you I was hurt more working as a librarian than I was during twenty years of flying hang gliders! So what caused the injury? What element caused the risk? 

Whenever I have been hurt, I noticed that the injuries came from what I didn’t do. It was my lack of awareness and preparation that manifested the risk. When I didn’t understand the issues and wasn’t prepared to respond appropriately, I got into trouble quickly, even as a librarian.

What about risk in business? Today’s business climate is whirling with more thermals and downdrafts than the wild blue yonder, and you are flying by the seat of your pants! Problems can come out of the blue, no matter how well you have planned. To maintain your competitive edge, continue to develop and train your employees. They will be more loyal, resilient, productive, competitive and creative. You take a big risk if you don’t keep your people aware and prepared. You might as well take up hang gliding, or public speaking.
 

Chris Waugh is the author of “Flying by the Seat of Your Pants,” “Updrafts: Insights that Lend Wings to Your Success,” and “Misty Memories.” She is also featured in “Speaking of Success” with Ken Blanchard, Jack Canfield and Stephen Covey. Chris works with business people who want to know how to wing it better. Visit www.ChrisWaugh.com to find out more.