Taking Risks: Our Secret Super Power

Angelese Russell
Jun 27
4 min read

Have you ever wondered what separates those who seem to embrace life's changes from those who feel stuck in old patterns? What is it about certain people that allows them to step into the unknown, even when it's scary?

Join me as I share real moments of facing the unknown and taking risks, and let's see how courage can become your secret superpower.

Let me ask you something:

Have you ever had to go to a social gathering alone after a break up or loss of a spouse, feeling vulnerable and exposed? Or maybe you've considered putting yourself out there again, knowing that love could mean risking heartbreak?

What about those moments when you've had to introduce yourself to a room full of strangers, or try something new that made your stomach twist with nerves?

I have.

I know intimately the uncertainty, the fear of judgment, the worry that I might not fit in or be accepted. But I also know the surprising strength that came from choosing to step forward anyway.

The Science of Risks & Why They Matter

Research tells us - people who consider calculated risks tend to be more satisfied with their lives.

Why? Because these risk takers understand that growth happens outside the comfort zone, and that every risk – big or small, brings the possibility of something new.

Extraordinary people aren't necessarily "fearless. They're just willing to feel the fear and do it anyway.

In my career as a Life & Wellness Coach, I've seen firsthand many times, clients stepping into the unknown and gaining power to redefine themselves. The process is rarely easy —because real change calls for courage, resilience, and a willingness to embrace uncertainty. And this - is when the magic of transformation happens and a new superpower is born.

Risk not Recklessness

What if risk-taking isn't just about big, dramatic leaps? What if it's just about the small, every day choices to show up as yourself, even when it's uncomfortable?

Once we accept fear as part of the equation, we can start small. It can be about "testing the waters, identifying manageable challenges, and embracing incremental progress. By taking small, but consistent deliberate steps outside our comfort zones, we gradually build the confidence and resilience needed for larger transformations. Very much like gaining muscle strength - or endurance which takes consistent routines built over time to reach transformation.

Sometimes, risk comes from necessity. After my husband passed, I felt like I had been through the worst already. And in a strange way that freed me from so much fear. I found myself propelled into doing things I never would have considered before – things that would have seemed too scary or too bold in my old life.

This process of change into risk calls for patience and self-compassion.

Growth is rarely linear, and setbacks are inevitable. Yet, every misstep provides valuable information and shapes the foundation of our eventual success. The willingness to persist, even when the outcome remains unclear, is what defines the true spirit of risk-taking.

Harnessing Your Superpower

In my work and life experience, the key to embracing the unknown lies in reframing our perception of risk. Instead of viewing it as something to be avoided, we can see it as an opportunity for self-discovery—a journey into uncharted territory where we uncover facets of ourselves that lay dormant. This shift in perspective transforms fear into curiosity and hesitation into possibility.

Here's a few ideas to think about -

Start Small: Try something new every day – even if it's just a new route to work, new recipe or new workout routine.
Embrace Failure: See your setbacks as lessons and opportunities, not losses.
Trust Your Gut: More often than not,the best decisions you can make come from your intuition. Go with it!
Learn From Others: Who has inspired you in your life? Were they risk-takers and what was their story?
Reflect then Adjust: After every experience you feel was risky, big or small, ask yourself – what you learned. Write about it or share the experience with someone your trust.

The Power of Possibility

A couple months ago, an opportunity to go to Italy came out of nowhere. A place I'd always dreamed of exploring, but could never imagine how I'd get there. At first, the idea of going alone, felt overwhelming, but then I thought, if I can handle going out to dinner by myself, maybe I can handle Italy too. The fear was real, but the thought of missing out felt even worse. So I said yes, and yes, it was absolutely worth the risk.

LAST THOUGHTS

Risk-taking is the engine behind innovation, adventure, and personal growth. Every great invention, every new business, every memorable experience – each started with someone willing to step into the unknown.

While I enjoy coaching on various topics, transformation and reinvention using risk taking as a super power is close to my heart. So, if there's something in your life, you've been wanting to say yes to – but you're not sure if you're ready to take the risk – let's talk.

I'd love to help you explore what that could mean for you. Not with empty promises or gimmicks, but with honest conversation and real support.

angeleserussell.com

Saluto,

Angelese