take risks essay

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Taking Risks in Professional and Personal Lives

by Dave | Cambridge 17 | 4 Comments

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the new Cambridge IELTS 17 book of past test papers on the topic of taking risks in professional and personal lives.

Check out my exclusive IELTS EBooks here on Patreon .

You can read essays and guides for the other IELTS Cambridge books, including Cambridge 17, here:

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 17

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 16

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 15

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 14

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 13

It is important for people to take risks, in both their professional lives and personal lives.

Do the advantages of taking these risks outweigh the disadvantages?

Some would argue that taking risks, both in terms of one’s private life and one’s working career, is advantageous overall. I am generally in agreement with this contention due to the potential for advancement and growth.

Firstly, risk-taking can expedite one’s career goals. Many workers decide early on that they are content with their position in society and therefore often fail to actualize their potential. Others, however, attempt various business enterprises and transition from field to field in order to find a good match. Although this may lead to short-term setbacks, in the long-term such ambitious individuals are far more likely to become very successful in life. Assuming that these risks are taken early in one’s career, there is a strong likelihood that they will eventually profit the risk-taker in question.

Moreover, an individual who takes risks will also develop more mature personal relationships. In more conservative countries, many young people do not begin to have serious romantic relationships until after university. The result of this is that they are often immature and it can lead to poor and naive choices in terms of marriage and parenting. In contrast, a person who takes risks in their personal life and enters into various relationships throughout high school and university will become a better judge of character. Their allegedly risky behavior can then serve as the foundation for personal growth and increased maturity.

In conclusion, taking risks can be a catalyst for tremendous growth and is therefore advisable. The disadvantages of risk-taking can also be mitigated in most contexts by not being inordinately reckless.

1. Some would argue that taking risks, both in terms of one’s private life and one’s working career, is advantageous overall. 2. I am generally in agreement with this contention due to the potential for advancement and growth.

• Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
• Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here .

1. Firstly, risk-taking can expedite one’s career goals. 2. Many workers decide early on that they are content with their position in society and therefore often fail to actualize their potential. 3. Others, however, attempt various business enterprises and transition from field to field in order to find a good match. 4. Although this may lead to short-term setbacks, in the long-term such ambitious individuals are far more likely to become very successful in life. 5. Assuming that these risks are taken early in one’s career, there is a strong likelihood that they will eventually profit the risk-taker in question.

• Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
• Explain your main idea.
• Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
• Keep developing it fully.
• Short sentences can make your writing clearer.

1. Moreover, an individual who takes risks will also develop more mature personal relationships. 2. In more conservative countries, many young people do not begin to have serious romantic relationships until after university. 3. The result of this is that they are often immature and it can lead to poor and naive choices in terms of marriage and parenting. 4. In contrast, a person who takes risks in their personal life and enters into various relationships throughout high school and university will become a better judge of character. 5. Their allegedly risky behavior can then serve as the foundation for personal growth and increased maturity.

• Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
• Explain your new main idea.
• Include specific details and examples.
• Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
• Finish the paragraph strong.

1. In conclusion, taking risks can be a catalyst for tremendous growth and is therefore advisable. 2. The disadvantages of risk-taking can also be mitigated in most contexts by not being inordinately reckless.

• Summarise your main ideas.
• Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here .

What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.

Some would argue that taking risks , both in terms of one’s private life and one’s working career , is advantageous overall . I am generally in agreement with this contention due to the potential for advancement and growth .

Firstly, risk-taking can expedite one’s career goals . Many workers decide early on that they are content with their position in society and therefore often fail to actualize their potential. Others, however, attempt various business enterprises and transition from field to field in order to find a good match . Although this may lead to short-term setbacks , in the long-term such ambitious individuals are far more likely to become very successful in life. Assuming that these risks are taken early in one’s career , there is a strong likelihood that they will eventually profit the risk-taker in question .

Moreover, an individual who takes risks will also develop more mature personal relationships . In more conservative countries , many young people do not begin to have serious romantic relationships until after university. The result of this is that they are often immature and it can lead to poor and naive choices in terms of marriage and parenting. In contrast, a person who takes risks in their personal life and enters into various relationships throughout high school and university will become a better judge of character . Their allegedly risky behavior can then serve as the foundation for personal growth and increased maturity .

In conclusion, taking risks can be a catalyst for tremendous growth and is therefore advisable . The disadvantages of risk-taking can also be mitigated in most contexts by not being inordinately reckless .

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

taking risks making decisions that are not always safe

in terms of concerning

private life personal lives

working career jobs

advantageous overall good in general

I am generally in agreement with this contention I mostly agree

due to because of

potential possible

advancement moving forward

growth becoming a better person

risk-taking making risky decisions

expedite make faster

career goals pursue a good job and career path

decide early on choose from the beginning

content satisfied with

position job

fail to actualize don’t fully achieve

attempt try

business enterprises jobs and businesses

transition from field to field move from job to job

good match good fit

short-term setbacks drawbacks right away

ambitious individuals people with big dreams

are far more likely to become greater chance they will

Assuming given that

risks are taken doing risky actions

strong likelihood good chance of it

profit what you get/earn

risk-taker person who takes risks

in question being discussed here

develop change

mature personal relationships better interactions with others

conservative countries traditional nations

serious romantic relationships boyfriends, girlfriends, partners, etc.

The result of this is that the consequence is

immature not mature, childish

poor not good

naive innocent

enters into various relationships throughout have many different relationships during

better judge of character understand people better

allegedly it is assumed that

serve as the foundation for are the basis for

personal growth how a person changes and gets better

increased maturity growing as a person

a catalyst for tremendous the cause of big

advisable a good idea

mitigated weakened

contexts situations

inordinately reckless very risky

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search :

ˈteɪkɪŋ rɪsks ɪn tɜːmz ɒv   ˈpraɪvɪt laɪf   ˈwɜːkɪŋ kəˈrɪə   ˌædvənˈteɪʤəs ˈəʊvərɔːl aɪ æm ˈʤɛnərəli ɪn əˈgriːmənt wɪð ðɪs kənˈtɛnʃən   djuː tuː   pəʊˈtɛnʃəl   ədˈvɑːnsmənt   grəʊθ rɪsk-ˈteɪkɪŋ   ˈɛkspɪdaɪt   kəˈrɪə gəʊlz dɪˈsaɪd ˈɜːli ɒn   ˈkɒntɛnt   pəˈzɪʃən   feɪl tuː ˈækʧʊəlaɪz   əˈtɛmpt   ˈbɪznɪs ˈɛntəpraɪzɪz   trænˈzɪʃ(ə)n frɒm fiːld tuː fiːld   gʊd mæʧ ʃɔːt-tɜːm ˈsɛtbæks æmˈbɪʃəs ˌɪndɪˈvɪdjʊəlz   ɑː fɑː mɔː ˈlaɪkli tuː bɪˈkʌm   əˈsjuːmɪŋ   rɪsks ɑː ˈteɪkən   kəˈrɪə strɒŋ ˈlaɪklɪhʊd   ˈprɒfɪt   rɪsk-ˈteɪkə   ɪn ˈkwɛsʧən dɪˈvɛləp   məˈtjʊə ˈpɜːsnl rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪps kənˈsɜːvətɪv ˈkʌntriz ˈsɪərɪəs rəʊˈmæntɪk rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪps   ðə rɪˈzʌlt ɒv ðɪs ɪz ðæt   ˌɪməˈtjʊə   pʊə   nɑːˈiːv   ɪn tɜːmz ɒv   ˈɛntəz ˈɪntuː ˈveərɪəs rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪps θru(ː)ˈaʊt   ˈbɛtə ˈʤʌʤ ɒv ˈkærɪktə   əˈlɛʤdli   sɜːv æz ðə faʊnˈdeɪʃən fɔː   ˈpɜːsnl grəʊθ   ɪnˈkriːst məˈtjʊərɪti ə ˈkætəlɪst fɔː trɪˈmɛndəs   ədˈvaɪzəbl ˈmɪtɪgeɪtɪd   ˈkɒntɛksts   ɪˈnɔːdɪnɪtli ˈrɛklɪs

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

Some would argue that t________________s , both i____________f one’s p_____________e and one’s w______________r , is a_____________________l . I_________________________________________________n d______o the p_________l for a_________t and g_________h .

Firstly, r__________g can e_________e one’s c__________s . Many workers d______________n that they are c_______t with their p________n in society and therefore often f____________e their potential. Others, however, a_______t various b__________________s and t___________________________d in order to find a g_________h . Although this may lead to s________________________s , in the long-term such a____________________s a_______________________________e very successful in life. A___________g that these r________________n early in one’s c_______r , there is a s_____________d that they will eventually p______t the r___________________________n .

Moreover, an individual who takes risks will also d__________p more m______________________s . In more c____________________________s , many young people do not begin to have s___________________________s until after university. T_________________________t they are often i____________e and it can lead to p____r and n____e choices i________________f marriage and parenting. In contrast, a person who takes risks in their personal life and e____________________________________t high school and university will become a b_________________r . Their a__________y risky behavior can then s_______________________________r p___________________h and i________________y .

In conclusion, taking risks can be a____________________________s growth and is therefore a__________e . The disadvantages of risk-taking can also be m__________d in most c______________s by not being i____________________s .

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities :

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice :

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/passion/202105/how-inspire-yourself-take-risks

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam :

• How important is it for people to set goals?
• Do people set different goals at different stages of life?
• Are personal goals more important than professional goals?
• What sort of goals do young people today set?
• Are people becoming more pessimistic about their life goals?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always good.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

https://howtodoielts.com/ielts-essay-change/

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I see that you mentioned the demerit of taking risks in career aspect, but why did you not discuss the demerits in terms of personal life in your second body paragraph?

There is only so much space and it isn’t necessary in order to fully support my opinion – I can just say that this reason is overwhelmingly more important.

Is that clear, Ailes?

Hi According to your other post, the advantage outweigh disadvantage question needs both sides of topic.

which one is the correct instruction? https://howtodoielts.com/ielts-writing-task-2-understanding-questions/

It isn’t absolutely necessary though I would advise it.

The exception is in cases like this question where there is personal and professional – then it makes sense to choose one side so that the development in manageable.

Is that clear?

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Taking Risks Essay | Is Taking Risks Good Or Bad?, An Essay On Risk  

January 10, 2022 by Prasanna

Taking Risks Essay: People often fear risks, especially when it comes to things like finances, relationships and career choices. Moreover, studies have shown that people are more likely to be worried about risks in the future than they are excited about opportunities. This is because it is difficult for humans to think in probabilities and statistics, so we tend to overestimate how bad things could potentially happen. However, taking risks can actually be a good thing, provided you do your research and weigh the alternatives carefully. Furthermore, you will need to find your risk threshold and you’ll be able to make decisions easily.

You can also find more  Essay Writing  articles on events, persons, sports, technology and many more

What Is A Risk?

Risk is the probability of an (unpleasant) event happening and the severity of the result if it does happen. To elaborate, the word “risk” can be defined as any situation or factor that might lead to loss or injury. Some people have a negative view of risks and see them as things that will lead to loss, injuries, death and destruction, while others are more accepting of risks and see them as opportunities to learn new things. In most cases though, risks can be unsettling, and the outcomes depend on the circumstances

Who Are The Beneficiaries Of Taking Risks?

For many people, taking risks can be a rewarding experience. For others, taking risks can be dangerous and hazardous. In any case, the benefits of taking risks are often debatable because the possible consequences of them are not always certain and depend on the individual in question. If a risk taken leads to an outcome that someone else is happy with, then it’s considered good. But if the risk leads to an outcome that someone else isn’t happy with, it becomes a risk that isn’t worth taking and people will view you as having poor judgment. This causes fear of risk. Fear of risk in people’s lives can be attributed to many things but the two main causes are a lack of understanding or a lack of confidence. People who have a hard time understanding the potential outcomes of a risky decision will naturally be more hesitant to take the risk. People with low self-esteem may also be hesitant to take risks because risk can often lead to failure, which would lead people with low self-esteem to fail as well.

Interestingly, research has shown that when people are given information on probabilities and statistics, they tend to become less fearful of risks: In a study conducted by behavioral scientists, participants were informed on the risks of ATVs and their safety features as well as the probability of an accident happening. They found that when people were given information on probabilities and statistics, they tended to become less fearful of risks. In other words, statistics and probability are a necessary part of any risk assessment even if they are difficult to comprehend. Fear often comes from not being able to grasp the probability of a risk happening, so if we can help people understand these concepts better, they will be more comfortable with risks.

Is Taking Risks Good Or Bad?

Sometimes, it is better to take risks after carefully analyzing situations. For example, if you put your savings into the stock market and the market crashes, you lose money. But if you invest in the stock market and the market is currently down, then you might make some profit. The keyword to understand here is “calculated risk” – everything that we do has some risks, but thoroughly analyzing and then acting accordingly minimizes the amount of risk.  We also see some risks where it is necessary to take risks. If a company is not performing well, the owners will lose money.

Benefits Of Taking Risks

Risks come in all shapes and sizes and we often face decisions about whether we should take the risk or not. It’s difficult to predict what will happen and so it can be hard to work out what the likely benefits of taking a certain type of risk might be. The best way to understand the potential benefits of a risk is to look at historical examples. But even then, there might be many factors that can significantly affect the outcome of a decision.

There are a few benefits to risk-taking. First, there is a higher chance of succeeding if you take a risk. Second, taking risks can make your life more exciting and less stagnant. Third, risk-taking can lead to happiness. These are just a few examples of the benefits of taking risks in life. However, the benefits of risk-taking are not always obvious. Some people believe that the lack of proper planning increases the chances for failure. Others argue that taking risks is essential in order to find success because it forces you to be innovative and to think outside the box. Risk-taking is a result of multiple factors such as personality, cognitive ability, and temperament.

Generally, a person who is willing to take risks is often more successful, and even if they are not, they can learn from their failures. Regardless, taking a risk can be very hard because you never know what is going to happen. Some people might say that failure will make you stronger and teach you greater humility, while others might believe that this idea is a myth. A person might decide to take a risk for a huge reward, or they might decide to take a different path that they are comfortable with in order to avoid the possibility of failure. In other words, it is important for someone who wants to take a risk to think about the potential consequences before doing so.

The benefits of taking risks in business: The benefits of taking risks in business are limitless. Taking risks in business allows entrepreneurs to explore new and untested avenues with the potential for huge gains. It also encourages innovation, spurs creativity, and cultivates a sense of adventure in employees that can be infectious within an organization. A willingness to take risks shows that you’re not afraid of failure and that you have confidence in your abilities. A willingness to take risks is a sign of confidence in your abilities to succeed and failure is often a matter of perception. As long as you’re prepared to take risks, you’re taking the first step towards capitalizing on opportunities that will benefit your company.

The benefits of risk taking for personal development: Taking risks is one of the best ways to develop your skills. Not only are you learning how to handle different challenges, but you also learn more about your ability to adapt. In other words, taking risks can be terrifying, but it’s one of the best ways to sharpen your skills. It’s not about being risk-free, it’s about taking calculated risks that are within your comfort zone. These risks can give you the opportunity to learn new skills and get valuable experience that will help you in the future.

Conclusion on Taking Risks Essay

Risk-taking is an important part of any endeavor. You can’t succeed without taking risks. Moreover, taking risks is an important aspect of life. Risk-taking pushes us to achieve things we never thought we could do and it makes the world a more challenging and exciting place. It allows us to learn and grow in ways that we may not have otherwise. There are many reasons why taking risks is important, but one of the most significant ones is that it allows for learning, growth, and development in ways that you may not have experienced otherwise. However, taking risks can have some devastating consequences. Hence, before taking a risk, it is important to weigh the pros and cons to ensure that you are making a carefully calculated decision.

FAQ’s on Taking Risks

Question 1. What are examples of taking risks?

Answer: These are examples of taking risks: – Investing your money into a company that you think will grow skyrocketing over time. – Taking a job that pays less but is more fulfilling for you. – Moving across the country for a relationship with someone you love.

Question 2. Why do people take risks?

Answer: Humans are hardwired to take risks. This is because the brain’s reward system is activated by many kinds of risk. These can range from taking a chance on a new type of food, to bungee jumping. Whatever the risk, if it pays off, it can be addicting and make you want more of the same type of thrill again.

Question 3. How should we take risks?

Answer: It’s hard to take risks. Some people are born risk-takers, while others are more cautious. However, the decision of how to take risks is individualized and should be made based on circumstances.

Question 4. How taking risks can lead you to a better life?

Answer: The idea of taking risks and chances is not one that many people would naturally want to take. That said, it is something that can lead you to a better life. Taking risks and chances in life will give you the opportunity to grow and learn, which can lead you to a better future than following a safe path.

Question 5. What is taking risks in life?

Answer: Taking risks in life is an important part of living. It can lead to success or failure. If you take risks, you might fail and make mistakes. But if you don’t take any risks, you’ll never know what could have been if you did.

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Cambridge IELTS 17: Sample Band 9 Answers

Posted by David S. Wills | Sep 17, 2022 | Model Essays | 1

Cambridge recently released the 17 th instalment in their IELTS series and I wanted to give you my sample answers for four of the essays in this book. I’ll also make some comments on the questions where I think it’s important to discuss the meaning, potential problems, or anything else that might arise. These are all task 2 essays because I don’t want to break any copyright laws by posting images from those books.

Below, you can find my sample band 9 answers to the task 2 questions from Cambridge IELTS 17 .

Test 1: Taking Risks

Here’s the first task 2 question in the book:

It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives. Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages?

First of all, I’ll say that this really reminds me of several older questions, which is not a surprise because the IELTS test makers like to recycle topics and ideas. It is most similar to this question:

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Although the words and even format of the question are totally different, it is almost the same in terms of its general meaning. Still, you always need to read very carefully and respond directly to the question rather than previous, similar questions.

Sample Band 9 Answer: Tasking Risks

People differ in their attitude towards taking risks, with some people seemingly born to be risky and others rather risk averse. This essay will look into the advantages and disadvantages of an adventurous attitude and conclude that taking some risks is a positive thing.

First of all, it should be noted that taking risks is necessary for success. History is full of such examples in all fields, from science to war and from sport to literature. Those who simply continue tradition and never try anything new are doomed to repeat the past and typically content themselves with mediocrity. However, when people try new things, they may risk failure, but they also bring about the possibility of tremendous success. Looking at literature, for example, we can see great writers like James Joyce and William Burroughs, who completely redefined what a novel could be by breaking all the rules. They could easily have wasted their time and become mired in failure, but their risks paid off and they are today considered giants in their field.

Of course, that is not to suggest that taking a risk always results in success. Naturally, for every great success there are countless failures. To continue the idea of literature, one can only begin to imagine the number of writers who attempted to do something entirely new but failed because they were misunderstood. Taking risks in everyday life can be an even bigger problem because the consequences can be more severe. Young men often hurt themselves in foolish stunts because they took a risk to impress their peers. In such cases, it would clearly have been better not to take that risk at all.

In conclusion, whether it is better to take risks or not depends entirely upon the risk. In some scenarios, it is best to take a chance and see what happens because the potential outcome could be immensely rewarding, but in many cases it is rather pointless. Still, overall it is better to take some risks than avoid them altogether.  

Notes and Language

I started this essay with a nice general statement but without being too random. I’ve tried to avoid clichéd IELTS language like “There is a hot controversy about…” This is neither true nor is it appropriate.

Although I mostly wanted to show that taking risks is a good thing, I split the essay into two body paragraphs and tried to show both sides of the issue. You don’t need to provide a balanced answer in IELTS writing task 2, but in this case I thought it was for the best. The main thing was to make sure that my position was clear throughout. This began with a clear and precise outline sentence . I also gave some interesting and appropriate examples and I stretched one theme (literature) over two paragraphs for continuity.

In terms of language, I used words like “risky and “risk averse,” which are obviously very topic specific. I did, however, have to use more vague terminology like “adventurous attitude” because I didn’t want to repeat “risk” too much. I also used phrases like “break the rules” and “attempt to do something new.” This also helps to avoid repetition.

Test 2: Smartphones

The next question is also similar to some previous ones, but because it’s 2022 it has been specifically written to include smartphones rather than computers or other types of technology :

Some children spend hours every day on their smartphones. Why is this the case? Do you think this is a positive or a negative trend?

This is a two-part question that includes a positive or negative question ! This might seem weird, but actually it’s become fairly common in recent years to include positive/negative questions inside a two-part question, so you should be ready to answer something like this. The key is not to go at length about the positive/negative aspect and instead squeeze it into just one paragraph.

Sample Band 9 Answer: Smartphones

It can be seen nowadays that young people, including small children, spend a lot of time on their phones. This essay will explain why and then argue that it is an overwhelmingly negative development.

To begin with, children use their phones a lot because they are enjoyable to the point of being addictive. Indeed, numerous studies have shown that phones are as addictive for children as sugar or drugs, and this makes it hard for them to moderate their behaviour. The apps on most phones are designed to appeal to people by rewarding them with dopamine and children are particularly susceptible to this. In addition, the bright images, simple games, and immersive experience make phones thoroughly appealing for young users.

This constant usage brings various problems, with perhaps the most alarming being the impact on people’s health. Using a phone is something that the human body has not yet adapted to and there are various risks. The most obvious one is neck damage. Doctors often warn that the postures people use when using their phones lead to neck strain, which can also trigger problems in the back and head. Some people worry about eyestrain, too, though this is unproven. Then, of course, there is the fact that for children almost the entirety of their entertainment comes in the form of these phones and so they no longer go outside to play games in the fresh air, getting necessary exercise and socialising. They are stuck indoors, staring at their phone and becoming overweight, fragile, and unsociable.

In conclusion, the current situation with children using their phones a lot is utterly negative. Even if there were any possible benefits, they would be grossly outweighed by the damage that these devices cause.

Again, my introduction is clear and precise. It starts by explaining the topic and then gives an explicit outline. There is nothing clichéd or confusing here. A reader would be well prepared for the next parts.

The structure is simple. One body paragraph deals with the first sentence and the next deals with the second sentence. It was a challenge to keep this simple because the questions certainly raise a lot of ideas. I could have written a thousand words on why children like smartphones so much! However, keep it short and to the point. Don’t waste time.

Important vocabulary here included “addictive” and “dopamine.” I also needed to talk about health (you can learn about health vocabulary here ), so I mentioned various issues, including “neck strain.”

Test 3: Professionals

Here’s the third writing question from Cambridge IELTS 17 :

Some people believe that professionals, such as doctors and engineers, should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Interestingly, this question has also been asked in different ways over the years! I have seen it written as a problem and solution question but now it is a “ discuss both views ” one. It is also frequently shared on websites and social media with various mistakes because people saw it in a test and misremembered it. (Read about the dangers of fake questions .)

Anyway, it’s a fascinating topic that hopefully everyone has something thoughts on. I know I did. 😉

Sample Band 9 Answer: Professionals

A small number of people think that highly trained professionals should be required to work in the same country where they did their training, but most people disagree with this. This essay will also disagree, suggesting that they should be free to work where they want.

To begin with, it is understandable that people might argue in favour of professionals working in the country where they trained because in some cases that country has paid for their training. Take, for example, a doctor who received medical training at the government’s expense in a relatively poor country. If they moved to another country, perhaps in order to earn a higher salary, then the government’s investment would have been wasted.

However, there are a few problems with that viewpoint. First of all, professionals of this nature usually pay for their own education, and so if they were required to stay in that country then it would be unfair. A lot of people invest in their education purely to gain the chance of moving to another country for a better life. Then, of course, there is the argument that all people should have some freedom of movement. Particularly in the case of highly trained professionals, who can bring value to different societies, it is beneficial to have them move around the world, sharing their skills and increasing diversity. Perhaps they ought to give something back to the society in which they were trained, but they should not be restricted by any law because that would be a violation of their fundamental rights.

In conclusion, people who have important skills should be free to move to other countries if they wish. They should not have a legal obligation to stay in the nation where they earned their skills, but perhaps for the sake of decency they might consider staying a short while and giving back to that society.

You might be curious about my first line: “A small number of people think…” Why did I say that? Well, the question says “Some people” and honestly I don’t think that many people share this view, so I used my words carefully to reflect that. Remember: Don’t just paraphrase blindly ! Use your own language and ideas to express a clear and intelligent point.

I began my concession paragraph by saying “it is understandable that people might argue…” I want to show the opposing view so that I can do a better job of arguing against it. I went on to argue convincingly in favour of the opposing view.

Note: You don’t need to talk about doctors and engineers! IELTS candidates often read the question, see these examples, and think that they are the main idea. However, they are not. These are purely examples. You don’t need to mention them at all.

My language here is related to the topic of work and migration. I also tried to avoid repetition . I used some great phrases like “at the government’s expense” and “a violation of their fundamental rights.” These are descriptive and specific.

Test 4: Alternative Medicine

Finally, we come to a question about a controversial issue:

Nowadays, a growing number of people with health problems are trying alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their usual doctor. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

Here, we have a question about alternative medicines vs conventional ones. This is a difficult subject to talk about and people will have different opinions on the matter, but don’t worry too much. Whether you support or oppose the use of alternative medicines, the examiner should not be prejudiced against you. Just make sure to explain your position clearly and convincingly.

Sample Band 9 Answer: Alternative Medicine

It has been claimed that more people are now using alternative medical practices rather than using proper doctors. This essay will argue that it is a dangerous development.

To begin with, there is simply no good argument for using alternative medicines. Any alternative treatment that works will be incorporated into conventional medicine, so to go outside of the mainstream is to take a pointless risk. The vast majority of alternative medical practices, no matter how they are marketed, are at best useless and at worst highly dangerous.

Using any alternative treatment has two potential outcomes. The first is that nothing will happen because most of them are in fact fake. Take acupuncture, homeopathy, or folk medicine, for example. These are simply archaic or idealistic ideas that mostly rely upon the placebo effect. In most cases, they do nothing and any genuine use that they could pose has or will be incorporated into conventional medicine through the scientific method and peer review. In such cases, a patient with an illness will not recover and will waste time in seeking real treatment. In severe cases, these fraudulent practitioners will actually harm their patients because their treatments are dangerous. These alternative medicines are unregulated and used by people who have no proper training, which means that they will not only fail to help but may even introduce new health problems.

In conclusion, the trend of people seeking alternative forms of medicine is massively problematic and puts people at serious risk of illness and death.

You will notice that there is not much balance to this essay. I have taken a very firm position here and that’s just fine. It actually makes it easier to write an essay when you have a firm belief. That’s why I started paragraph two with a strong statement: “there is simply no good argument for using alternative medicines.”

Of course, if you make a statement like this, you need to be able to back it up with explanation or evidence. I explained my position in the second paragraph and then gave more detail in the third.

Questions relating to medicine can be hard because they might require you to draw upon difficult vocabulary. Here, you can see I have done that, although not all of it is medical in nature: archaic, idealistic, placebo, fraudulent, practitioner , etc. In terms of Lexical Resource , you shouldn’t strive for difficult words, but rather aim for accuracy.

Final Thoughts

I hope that you have found these sample band 9 answers to Cambridge IELTS 17 questions useful. You should not try to copy my words or ideas, but rather view them as inspiration for your own essays. There is no perfect formula for an IELTS task 2 essay, and so you should figure out your own ways of directly addressing the question and developing your answers thoroughly.

If you found this useful, maybe you will enjoy my sample answers for Cambridge IELTS 16 and Cambridge IELTS 18 .

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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Ielts essay # 1276 - it is important for people to take risks in professional and personal lives, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, it is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives. , do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages.

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IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Taking risks in professional and personal lives

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By ieltsnotes

Table of Contents

IELTS Essay Question

Plan your answer

Sample Answer

Taking risks is a normal part of life and it presents us with both opportunities and challenges . This essay will detail the reasons why the benefits of taking risks far outweigh the drawbacks.

In the business world, taking risks can open up the opportunity for unexpected growth. The website called makingsenseofcents.com is a great example. The owner of the website made a risky decision to quit her job and turn her blogging side hustle into a full-time career several years ago. This decision to step out of her comfort zone into the unknown has helped turned her blog into a multi-million-dollar business, which was something that she never expected when she started blogging. Taking risks also helps people conquer their fears in their everyday lives. For example, if someone afraid of public speaking took the opportunity to give a presentation in front of a crowd, it could help them to confront their fear and turn it into faith that they are capable of doing anything as long as they put in enough effort.

However, doing something risky might lead to failure if the risks involved are not properly calculated. Many people spend several years trying to turn their part-time blogging job into a successful business but fail and have to return to the nine-to-five rat race . Those years could have been better spent honing their skills at work, which might have helped them to climb the corporate ladder or be offered a pay rise. In addition, the courage to speak in front of a crowd in the above example might turn into a disaster if the speaker does not take the time to carefully prepare for the presentation. In some cases, this might be an opportunity for others to make fun of them and make them lose the courage to try public speaking again. However, these risks can be minimized if people carefully calculate the risks involved.

In conclusion, the benefits of taking risks, including exponential business growth and overcoming fear, outweigh any drawbacks because the chance of failure is reduced if people take calculated risks.

Useful vocabulary

• present somebody with something = to cause something such as a problem, threat, or opportunity
• side hustle = a part-time job that a person does as well as their regular job
• comfort zone = a situation in which you feel comfortable and in which your ability and determination are not being tested
• the unknown = a place, situation, or thing that is not known about or understood
• conquer something = to succeed in dealing with or controlling something
• be afraid of … = feeling fear; frightened because you think that you might be hurt or suffer
• be capable of … = having the ability or qualities necessary for doing something
• the rat race = a way of life in modern society, in which people compete with each other for power and money
• the corporate ladder = the proverbial climb up a company’s employment hierarchy, where career advancement is likened to climbing rungs on a ladder
• make fun of somebody/something = to make a joke about someone or something in a way that is not kind

IELTS Writing Task 1 Essay: Consumption of energy in the USA since 1980

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IELTS Essay Topic: It is important for people to take risks, in both their professional lives and personal lives.

• Updated on  
• May 22, 2023

Q- It is important for people to take risks, in both their professional lives and personal lives. Do the advantages of taking these risks outweigh the disadvantages?

Ans- The importance of risk-taking in both professional and personal aspects of life is a topic of great significance. While some argue that the benefits of taking risks outweigh the drawbacks, others highlight the potential disadvantages. This essay will examine how the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Taking risks offers several advantages. Firstly, it fosters personal growth and development. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing calculated risks can lead to the acquisition of new skills, increased confidence, and expanded capabilities. Secondly, risk-taking is often a catalyst for innovation and progress. Many scientific breakthroughs, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial successes have resulted from individuals and organizations daring to take risks. With embracing uncertainty, society may experience significant advancements. Lastly, taking risks allows individuals to seize opportunities that may lead to personal or professional success. By embracing uncertainty, individuals are more likely to experience new avenues of growth and achievements.

While the advantages of taking risks are compelling, it is crucial to weigh them against the potential disadvantages. One of the most significant perils is the possibility of failure and its associated consequences. Risk-taking involves a level of uncertainty, and not all risks yield positive outcomes. Failure can lead to financial loss, setbacks, and a decline in morale. Secondly, it can be accompanied by increased stress and anxiety. It thus becomes essential to learn to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and prudent decision-making, otherwise, it could lead to disastrous consequences. 

In conclusion, risk-taking plays a significant role in personal and professional lives and the benefits definitely overwhelm the drawbacks. The advantages, including personal growth, innovation, and seizing opportunities, highlight the importance of embracing uncertainty. However, the potential drawbacks, such as failure, stress, and reckless decision-making, should be taken into account. By assessing risks carefully, individuals can harness the advantages while minimizing the potential disadvantages, allowing them to navigate the path to success with confidence.

Outline statement:  The importance of risk-taking in both professional and personal aspects of life is a topic of great significance.

Paraphrased statement:  While some argue that the benefits of taking risks outweigh the drawbacks, others highlight the potential disadvantages. 

Thesis statement:  This essay will examine the advantages and disadvantages of risk-taking and provide an analysis of whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Body paragraph 1-Topic sentence: Taking risks offers several advantages. 

Body paragraph 1- Supporting evidence: Firstly, it fosters personal growth and development. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing calculated risks can lead to the acquisition of new skills, increased confidence, and expanded capabilities. Secondly, risk-taking is often a catalyst for innovation and progress. 

Body paragraph 1- Analysis: Many scientific breakthroughs, technological advancements, and entrepreneurial successes have resulted from individuals and organizations daring to take risks. Without embracing uncertainty, society may miss out on significant advancements. Lastly, taking risks allows individuals to seize opportunities that may lead to personal or professional success. By embracing uncertainty, individuals are more likely to experience new avenues of growth and achievements.

Body paragraph 2- Topic sentence: While the advantages of taking risks are compelling, it is crucial to weigh them against the potential disadvantages. 

Body paragraph 2- Supporting evidence: One of the most significant perils is the possibility of failure and its associated consequences. Risk-taking involves a level of uncertainty, and not all risks yield positive outcomes. Failure can lead to financial loss, setbacks, and a decline in morale. 

Body paragraph 2- Analysis:  Secondly, it can be accompanied by increased stress and anxiety. It thus becomes essential to learn to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and prudent decision-making, otherwise, it could lead to disastrous consequences. 

Conclusion: In conclusion, risk-taking plays a significant role in personal and professional lives and the benefits definitely overwhelm the drawbacks. The advantages, including personal growth, innovation, and seizing opportunities, highlight the importance of embracing uncertainty. However, the potential drawbacks, such as failure, stress, and reckless decision-making, should be taken into account. By assessing risks carefully, individuals can harness the advantages while minimizing the potential disadvantages, allowing them to navigate the path to success with confidence.

Vocabulary 

The importance of risk-taking in both professional and personal aspects of life is a topic of great significance . While some argue that the benefits of taking risks outweigh the drawbacks, others highlight the potential disadvantages. This essay will examine the advantages and disadvantages of risk-taking and provide an analysis of whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks.

Taking risks offers several advantages. Firstly, it fosters personal growth and development. Stepping outside one’s comfort zone and embracing calculated risks can lead to the acquisition of new skills, increased confidence, and expanded capabilities. Secondly, risk-taking is often a catalyst for innovation and progress. Many scientific breakthroughs , technological advancements, and entrepreneurial successes have resulted from individuals and organizations daring to take risks. Without embracing uncertainty, society may miss out on significant advancements. Lastly, taking risks allows individuals to seize opportunities that may lead to personal or professional success. By embracing uncertainty, individuals are more likely to experience new avenues of growth and achievements.

While the advantages of taking risks are compelling , it is crucial to weigh them against the potential disadvantages. One of the most s ignificant perils is the possibility of failure and its associated consequences . Risk-taking involves a level of uncertainty , and not all risks yield positive outcomes. Failure can lead to financial loss, setbacks , and a decline in morale . Secondly, it can be accompanied by increased stress and anxiety. It thus becomes essential to learn to strike a balance between calculated risk-taking and prudent decision-making, otherwise, it could lead to disastrous consequences. 

In conclusion, risk-taking plays a significant role in personal and professional lives and the benefits definitely overwhelm the drawbacks. The advantages, including personal growth, innovation, and seizing opportunities, highlight the importance of embracing uncertainty. However, the potential drawbacks , such as failure, stress, and reckless decision-making, should be taken into account. By assessing risks carefully, individuals can harness the advantages while minimizing the potential disadvantages, allowing them to navigate the path to success with confidence.

Linkers and Connectors Used in this Essay

Here are the linkers and connectors used in this essay:

• In conclusion

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Taking Risks Conception Essay

• To find inspiration for your paper and overcome writer’s block
• As a source of information (ensure proper referencing)
• As a template for you assignment

It is a well-known fact that taking risks can result in two things: success of failure. Some people say that taking risks brings to new very important findings, for example, in sports or science; others argue that taking risks can cause failure or even death, for example in finance or everyday life.

Some say that taking risks is inherent in people, and other people claim it contradicts instinct of self-preservation. To my mind, taking risks is a bit of all mentioned above, but there is no doubt that for each person taking risks is not the same.

I think that taking risks is an important and inevitable part of our lives; we all take risks, major or minor. I agree that if people want to succeed and achieve more they have to risk, at least, from time to time, or as Schwalbe puts it – to try something new (Schwalbe). I assume that all the athletes take risks to establish their records; they are likely to “40-30-30 Rule”, where 30 is the degree of the risk (Schwalbe).

This risk rule really works in sport and science, since all the experiments are a kind of risk; scientists take risks and get their results. To my mind, Schwalbe is right pointing out that the most of people regret on what they haven’t done rather on that they did. So in terms of getting rid of one’s regret a person needs to follow own instincts.

Nevertheless, it is necessary to admit that sometimes taking risk may cause very negative results; therefore it is necessary to be reasonable. I am impressed with the example provided by Ropeik about the woman who was afraid to fly because of terrorist (Dreifus). This woman decided to drive several states, and she died in a car crash.

In this case the woman should have think about the degree and possibility of risk in cars and planes. Regarding the fact that planes are the safest means of travelling, and the fact that possibility of terroristic act repeating wasn’t big, this woman should have gone by plane. This proves that there are some cases where thoughtful reasoning is needed.

Here I should stress that thoughtfulness is necessary in medicine where people’s lives are concerned. Doctors should carefully consider all the consequences and then make decisions. Doctors are not the only people who should be concerned about health; people should mind their health themselves. Every risk here should be thought over thousands of times to make no harm to oneself or somebody else.

At this point I would like to return to my statement that each person has his/her notion of risk. Someone may think that it is very risky to ride a bicycle, someone may be afraid to take a risk and visit another country or even unfamiliar place. I am sure that a person who goes in for extreme sports, may be very conservative in food and will never “take a risk” to taste some exotic dainty (here I don’t some religious or health restrictions, of course).

To my mind these humble risks can be taken, and there is something that can inspire people to take such kind a risk, this is an example of other person. For instance, in case with food, a person can see that other people taste that, so he/she can also try it; this person tries and, of course, starts trying to find those stupid reasons preventing from such pleasant experience. After this, I am sure, the person will continue taking such kind of risks.

As for me, I can’t say that I risk all the time. I can’t even provide any example of my big risk; I suppose my risks are still in future. I know that I am not afraid to take risk; at least I haven’t met some difficult situation when I was to risk.

Here I’d like to mention my friend, who is afraid of speaking. I can’t say she doesn’t talk at all, but she is not a public speaker, and she will never speak on something she is not sure about, and if she is asked something she doesn’t know thoroughly she just keeps mum. My friend is afraid of making mistake.

To my mind this is not right, for everyone knows if we don’t make mistakes will never learn. In this connection I would like to cite Carrol admitting that “failure is a good thing” (Carroll). Though, I wouldn’t agree that “success is boring” (Carroll). I’d rather admit that people should try to improve even successful things. A good example of this is Carrol’s daughter who seeks for the further development (Carroll).

To my mind, taking risks is essential for the whole humanity. It is impossible to imagine where we could be now if our ancestors didn’t risk to tame fire. All these great and little risks lead people to new discoveries, new opportunities. I think people should take risks and start something new; they can’t just sit and talk about achievement of others, they should take a chance and risk, leaving one’s fear behind, without being afraid of failure, because failure will only show the right way to go and succeed.

Works Cited

Carroll, J. “Failure Is A Good Thing.” NPR. 2006.

Dreifus, C. “A Conversation With/David Ropeik; The Fear Factor Meets Its Match.” The New York Times . 2002.

Schwalbe, M. The 40-30-30 Rule: Why Risk Is Worth It . The 99 percent Web.

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How Taking Risks Can Lead You to a Better Life

Taking risks doesn’t mean succeeding every time, and that’s ok taking risks can lead to failure which in turn can help you grow as a person..

(zhukovvvlad / Shutterstock.com)

Many of life’s greatest achievements require going outside of your comfort zone. Whether it means overcoming shyness to perform onstage, investing money to help your business grow, or putting yourself out there for the chance to find love, some of life’s most rewarding experiences come as a result of taking risks. However, many of us have a difficult time dealing with the uncertainty that goes along with taking risks. A feeling of unease grows out of not knowing the outcome and the fear of potential failure. What if I embarrass myself in front of everyone? What if I lose all the money that I invested? What if I open my heart and get rejected? What if I’m not good enough? Answer that with another “what if”: what if the point of taking risks isn’t the outcome, but the process in and of itself. Through taking risks, we must confront our own fears, and sometimes that leads to failure… But what if that wasn’t such a bad thing after all?

The Key to Succeed? Learn to Fail

“The master has failed more times than the beginner has even tried.” — Stephen McCranie Many may have a negative view of failure, but actually, it can provide an essential tool for building character. Failure makes us stronger and more resilient. People who fail repeatedly develop persistence in the face of difficulties. Look at the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, who lost eight elections, failed twice in business, and suffered a nervous breakdown all before becoming one of the greatest American presidents. Through failure, he developed the persistence necessary to later lead his country through one of its hardest periods in history. Perhaps he never could have done so without experiencing so many failures himself. What does that tell us? Taking risks doesn’t mean succeeding every time, and that’s ok! The process of taking risks may lead to failure, but even that can make us a better person by increasing the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.

(kenary820 / Shutterstock.com)

The One Thing Risk-Takers Have in Common? Overconfidence

Failure might turn us into better people, but that doesn’t make it any less difficult to take risks. It turns out that building confidence can help in overcoming the fear of risk-taking. Entrepreneurs must go up against tremendous odds to build a successful business. That means taking big risks without knowing the outcome. What makes them do this? Confidence, and a lot of it. In a study , Ohio State University management professor Jay Barney, Ph.D., and Lowell Busenitz, Ph.D., of the University of Houston, asked 124 successful entrepreneurs and 95 top managers to answer a round of questions and rate how sure they felt about their responses. While both groups demonstrated confidence, the results proved that the entrepreneurs had an exceptionally high level of confidence.

(oneinchpunch / Shutterstock.com)

Learn to Overcome Your Fears

Luckily, confidence is a learnable skill. Erika Casriel describes in her book , Living Fully with Shyness and Social Anxiety, "The reality is that most socially confident people deliberately learn specific skills." That means, through practice, we can develop better confidence, equipping us with the right skills to take risks. Even someone as seemingly outgoing as comedian Will Ferrell once considered himself painfully shy and claims he had to work very hard to overcome his lack of confidence. To do so, he would do idiotic things in public so that people would laugh at him. He told People Magazine,” In college, I would push an overhead projector across campus with my pants just low enough to show my butt. Then my friend would incite the crowd to be like, 'Look at that idiot!' That's how I got over being shy." What does this tell us about taking risks? When we feel shy or afraid of something, we can take action to build more confidence. Instead of accepting himself as a shy person, Ferrell had the courage to overcome his fears by facing them. In doing so, he felt more confident outside of his comfort zone.

(PPstock / Shutterstock.com)

The Cycle of Success

The takeaway? Taking a risk to achieve a goal requires courage to face the fear of uncertainty. No matter the outcome, either way, we grow through the process and become more resilient and confident. Better yet, building those skills helps in taking more risks and improves the chances of achieving future goals.

(fizkes / Shutterstock.com)

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How Taking Risks Can Lead You to a Better Life

Let’s talk about taking risks. How many of you hear the word risk and think: “not good,” “bad,” or “No way, I’m running as fast as I can in the other direction.” Does that sound like you? Or are you someone who sees risks for the opportunities they are?

Welcome back! I’m so glad you’re taking the time to read my articles because the time you spend here with me is an investment in yourself; it shows that you are interested in building yourself a better life! And that is the first step to taking risks.

Today, I’ll discuss how taking risks is actually a good thing—and often a necessary step in reaching your goals and living the life your soul intended™. I’ll also share real-life examples of risks that lead to positive outcomes and strategies to move past the brain's risk-averse instincts.

Table of Contents

Is it Good to Take Risks?

Taking risks is not inherently good or bad. It all depends on the type of risk and the circumstances surrounding the risk. But in many cases, taking a risk is the key to increasing your self-confidence and opening you up to more opportunities and experiences.

Of course, there are other times when taking a risk is not in your best interest. Steer clear of risks that could harm other people, and never take a risk that could violate your own personal boundaries or endanger your mental and physical health.

Your own physical and mental safety is paramount, but most of the risks we avoid in life don’t cause this sort of harm. The risks we run away from usually aren't about real physical danger—but they are grounded in fear

Examples are: Fear of making a mistake. Fear of looking silly. Fear of people judging your choices. Fear of failure. Fear of not being good enough. These types of fears are what I call emotional fears.

And, to repeat, not all risks are bad. Heck, I absolutely would not be where I am today if I didn’t take many risks along the way.

Starting my own business was a huge risk! Going into a career that barely existed before I started was a huge risk! Getting my first book published was a huge risk! Opening myself up to love was a huge risk!

Because I know which risks to take (growth) and which ones not to take (harmful), I don't regret any of the risks I've taken, whether I succeeded or failed in the eyes of the outside world. I know I wouldn’t be who I am today or where I am today if I didn’t put myself out there and take risks

Was I scared? You bet. Did taking those risks challenge who I thought I was? Yes. Was taking even the first step towards my goal a risk? Oh, yes.

So, if it worked for me, how can risk taking benefit your life?

Remember, risks aren’t all about jumping out of an airplane or betting a month's salary on horse racing or running in front of traffic on a dare. Calculated risks are what help you reach your dreams . Taking calculated risks will help you live the life your soul intended™. Without a little risk, there’s no reward. And that reward is confidence.

Applying for a promotion is a risk. Starting a relationship is a risk. Giving your children freedom to spend time with their friends is a risk. Buying a house with a mortgage is a risk. Trying unfamiliar food is a risk. Publishing a book is a risk.

You get the picture. Life is filled with risks of all shapes and sizes, and if you try to avoid them all, that refusal to take even the smallest risk will slash your self-esteem and perpetuate the belief that you deserve to be stuck . Think of avoiding risks as fear’s way of keeping you off balance, confused, and unsure of yourself. Fear wants to stop you from building the self-confidence it takes to reach your goals and find peace of mind. 

Risks move you forward in life. But often, we feel too afraid to take even minor risks. We don’t apply for that promotion out of fear we might not get it. We don’t say “I love you” because the other person might not say it back.

But is it really that big of a risk? I know it feels like a big risk, but ask yourself: what do you really have to lose by believing in yourself, putting yourself out there, and giving yourself a shot?

Rejection? Embarrassment? Failure? That's all fear talking.

When we understand that it’s only fear keeping us from taking worthwhile, calculated risks , we can see the true benefits of taking risks. Risks aren’t something to be feared—risks present possibilities, and they can transform your life into one you are happy and proud to live, not a life that just happens around you.

Learn How To Overcome Fear So It No Longer Controls You .

Taking risks has got me to where I am today, and I want those results for you, too!

Let’s talk about some clear examples of how risks can lead to a better life for yourself.

What are Examples of Taking Risks? (That Lead to Great Rewards)

Anytime you think about risk, weigh the outcomes. What is it that you’re actually risking? What are the true negative consequences ? Are you worried about your ego being bruised by embarrassment? Or are you risking something more serious? And what are the rewards? What do you stand to gain by taking a small or big risk ?

Often, the rewards that come from taking a risk far outweigh its consequences (i.e., the feelings you’re afraid to feel or what others may think of you.)

Let’s talk about changing careers , for example. Leaving your current career for another one is a risk. What if it doesn’t work out? What if you don’t like it? What if the new people you work with don’t like you? What if you don’t make enough money? What if you FAIL ?? 😱

At your current career, you know the ropes. You know what you get paid each month. You know where to park your car. You know what to expect each day. But—and there’s a big BUT—are you happy? Are you fulfilled? Are you content? Are you on fire and filled with passion and purpose each day?

If you go to bed every Sunday night dreading the week ahead, hating your boss, feeling completely underappreciated, and feeling disappointed with where your career has led you, are you really risking that much? In this case, you are already deeply unhappy with where you are. What might seem like a big risk really isn’t a risk at all.

If you change careers, there’s a really good chance you won’t be as unhappy as you are now. But what if you hate your new job too? Well, you’ve now learned a lot along the way, understand yourself better, and are in a better position to pursue something more suited to you. You have far more to gain from making a change in your life than you stand to lose.

So many people who decide to become Life Coaches are in this position. Their job is okay. They can't complain too much. They've put up with their discontent for a long time. But they keep searching for something better, something that’s more aligned with who they really are.

When they discover they can train to be a Certified Fearless Living Coach while still at their current job, they feel hopeful for their future and excited to be learning skills that make a difference in other people’s lives.

The funny thing is when our Coaches graduate from the Life Coach Certification Program, some decide to change the dynamics at their current job and stay right where they are; their job is not the same because they are not the same. Others go on to build a coaching business and, eventually, quit their job.

Here’s another one.

I was working with a client, Helen, who was deeply upset with how she was being treated at work. Her boss would yell at her in front of her coworkers and often say disrespectful things. It was really draining on her. It was hindering her ability to do her best work, and it was beginning to seep into her personal life because every day she went home unhappy and resentful.

What did Helen do? She took a risk. After we role-played what she could say and how to say it, she booked a one-on-one meeting with her boss and explained how she felt using the tools I share in Fearless Conversations for Coaches . She provided clear examples of hurtful things her boss had said to her recently and explained that it was hindering her ability to continue to work for him with pride

After we role-played, she was better prepared for any and all questions her boss could ask, and she was prepared for a plethora of his potential responses. That’s one thing a good Coach does ; role-play your most difficult conversations before you ever have them.

What was the risk? Well, there was a chance that her boss might not take it well. That could make it an awkward conversation. What if he started treating Helen even worse in the workplace after it was mentioned? Sure, there are some risks she had to take, but what about the reward? What Helen stood to gain far outweighed the risks. and because she and her Coach role-played, she was steeled against any of the worst possible outcomes.

Bottom line: Helen’s boundaries were being crossed, and that was NOT OKAY. Boundaries are incredibly important in life. Learn more in my article: Why Personal Boundaries Are Important and How to Develop Them .

Helen was clear about her boundaries when she spoke to her boss. And what happened?

Helen’s boss listened, but didn't talk much. She admitted she was nervous about going to work the next day. But after that meeting, things changed. She wasn’t talked down to anymore at work. In fact, her boss began to seek her advice on important business decisions, believing Helen was someone who would tell it to him straight—because that was exactly what she did when she spoke up and stood up for herself.

And the big kicker? A few months later, Helen got a promotion. Her boss looked at her differently after that conversation. He had more respect for Helen and saw her as a leader, not just someone who could be pushed around.

“But Rhonda… What if that story didn’t go well? What if the worst that could happen did actually happen?”

Helen took a calculated risk . Before going into that meeting, Helen knew the risks, but she was willing to take them because her dignity, boundaries, and happiness were more important. If that meeting didn’t go well, she would know it was a sign that, as much as she loved her co-workers and the work she did, she couldn’t stay there. She would always be degraded and humiliated at work, and that was not a future she wanted.

Let’s dig into one more example.

Anyone here afraid of saying “I love you?” Anyone ever said “I love you” to someone only to have them not say it back? Maybe that person couldn’t bring themselves to say it, or even worse, maybe they didn’t feel the same way about you.

Saying “I love you” and being open to love is a risk, but I’d argue it’s a pretty darn worthwhile risk to take. If you never take that risk, you won’t be open to love , and you’ll have a pretty tough time finding it. Even if you do find love, your partner will never truly feel your love if you are always holding something back out of a fear of rejection.

Love is one area in life that most of us can agree is worth taking a risk for. Relationships always have some risks involved, but the risks are worth taking if the reward could be lifelong love and commitment with a partner who values you as much as you value them.

So, how do we feel about risks now?

How Do You Take Risks? What’s the First Step?

It’s time to step outside of your comfort zone . Don’t do it for me, your family, or your friends—do it for you. Be a risk taker ; you are the only person that can properly prioritize your own physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

What’s the first step? My 10-week Fearless Living Training Program is based on decades of learning how to crack the secret code to fear, including the fears that keep you from taking the kind of calculated risks that will lead to a better life.

With Fearless Living, you’ll learn how to identify your own needs, set boundaries, and tolerate uncertainty . Our community is passionate about building confidence through self-examination, willingness, and courage.

Sign up today! What are you really risking?

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fearless you

Fearless leader, let’s connect, day 30: let me introduce you to yourself.

It’s time to celebrate. You did it. Oh how good you’ll feel when you’ve practiced the 30 tools laid out for you in Change Your Life in 30 Days. You’ll feel more yourself than you’ve ever felt before. You’ll be more empowered and powerful knowing these tools are at your fingertips. Bottom line: your relationships will be filled with more love, your worth will skyrocket, your confidence will increase and your dreams will have wings. Your toolbox is full. Your mindset is fearless. Now, go on. Live your Fearless Life.

Day 29: Heaven

Take a breath. A nice deep one. We are going to talk about heaven together. Not the one with God sitting on a cloud, but the heaven that exists right where you are. The heaven tat shows up when we live by our commitments. In Day 29, I’ve created a commitment statement that will anchor you as you move forward in living more fearlessly. It will inspire you, and yes, even motivate you. More important, it will remind you who you really are. This is a favorite amongst my students.

Day 28: Beautiful You

Beautiful isn’t a word most people take on easily. They can call other people beautiful but when I ask them to think of themselves that way, they pause, get confused and may even blush. It’s okay. Owning your beauty isn’t something you were probably taught to do. I know I wasn’t. Day 28 is about your beauty within and without and owning it. By the way, you are beautiful and I can’t wait for you to know it. For real.

Day 27: Redefining You

You’ve been on this journey with me for 27 days. And in those 27 days you’ve changed. For the better. You’re more…how do I say it? More YOU! And it’s time to take a moment and reflect on who you are now. It’s time to redefine who you are and how you want to move forward. Take a breath. This is all good.

Day 26: Never Confront Again

Have you ever avoided having a difficult conversation? Me too. Until I learned this surprising simple mindset that eliminates confronting anyone ever again that I will share with you in Day 26. Plus, I’m going to give you a step-by-step script to show you what to do instead. Your new mindset along with the script will make any conversation you’ve been avoiding way easier. Soon, there will be no conversation too scary for you to have. It’s time to speak up.

Day 25: Forget Motivation

If I give you a hyped up pep speech, you might feel motivated. For a while. But I bet not long enough to get the job done. And that’s the problem with motivation created by an outside force. In Day 25, I’m going to show you what to focus on instead that will give you more long-term results and long-term contentment. Sounds nice, right?

Day 24: What’s Love Got To Do With It

Your yearnings and desires come from wanting to share more of who you are. Self love is what helps you do that by giving you the permission (and worth) to push past your fears and reach for your dreams. But often, it’s doesn’t feel okay to love yourself. It’s feels selfish or greedy. No more. In Day 24, you’ll get the permission you need to go after anything that you want because you’ll know how to love yourself (and you have a right to your dreams.)

Day 23: For or Against

Is the world for you or against you? I know you want to believe the world is for you yet, I bet, based on what you discover in Day 23, you’ll soon see how often you get tricked into believing, and reacting, as if the world is against you. When you feel like the world is against you, it becomes a world filled with lack and that’s no way to live. In Day 23, I will give you a tool that will give you eyes to see that the world is, indeed, for you.

Day 22: The Gift of Rejection

Rejection is hard to face. And it’s a part of life. Usually, it isn’t personal, even when it feels personal. On Day 22, I will be asking you to go beyond the normal surface experience and instead, see yourself through heart of your humanity. Yes. You are human. Yes. Things happen. And yes. You will be rejected. And it’s all good. It might be hard to see it now, but soon, being thankful for rejection will be effortless. Let me show you the tools to use to make this so.

Day 21: Luck, Fate and Destiny

I’m going to blow your mind on Day 21 because I’m asking you to give up luck. Yep. No more luck. On Day 21 I will tell you why and more important, what to do instead. This will give you such relief and make you feel so powerful. Success is within your grasp when you give up luck and embody the tools I share here.

Day 20: Momentum

Let’s keep the momentum going. In Day 20, you’ll revisit the last 10 days to give yourself credit for the hard work you’ve been doing plus, remind yourself of what’s ahead. Without momentum, we lose hope and lose our inspired action. When you have momentum, the bumps of life don’t seem so rough.

Day 19: Forgiveness

Is there a part of you stuck in the past? For over 20 years of my life, I couldn’t get past my past because I didn’t know how to forgive so I refused to. Have you refused to forgive someone in your past whose hurt you? Maybe that person is even yourself? If the past is running your present, you’ll create a future that looks a whole lot like the past. In Day 19, I will take you by the hand and show you how to forgive the past for good. There’s freedom here. I promise.

Day 18: Intuition

Do you know the difference between the voice of fear and the voice of your intuition? Not sure? Day 18 is going to make it crystal clear to you so you can take inspired action. When you know you’re guided by something larger than you, it’s easy to be motivated and trust yourself. The ability to follow your intuition is necessary for true happiness. You’ll find out how here.

Day 17: Excuses

Are you so good at making up excuses you’re confusing them with the facts? You’re not alone. Most people want to show me proof that their excuses are real. I let them. But after I share the tools in Day 17, you won’t want to because you’ll see that a fight for your excuses is a fight for a less than fearless life.

Day 16: The Myth of Balance

The search for balance has become epidemic and based on the amount of magazine articles and books written on the subject, we are failing miserably in our quest for the perfect balance. What if you could create the balance you need to achieve your biggest dreams? In Day 16, I’m going to ask you to give up your search for balance and instead, use this new tool to help you reach your goals.

Day 15: Trusting Heart

Do you ever feel like you can’t really trust the people around you? Has someone you love let you down? Has your heart been broken too many times? What would you say if I told you that trusting others isn’t about them at all but about trusting yourself? In Day 15, you’ll learn a whole new way to trust yourself, and others, so you can finally experience a deeper and more authentic intimacy with those that matter.

Day 14: Liar, Liar

Do you ever find yourself lying to make a situation better? Lying seems harmless enough, especially those little white lies. But those lies erode our self-respect and cause us to doubt ourselves. You might be surprised to learn that honesty isn’t always the answer to lying. Day 14 will give you a pathway out of lies and false honesty to create clear conversations that create more connection in all your relationships.

Day 13: The Power of Word

Do your words empower you or disempower you? Words are slippery and unless we become aware of what comes out of our mouths, more than we’d like, the words we use every day are ruining our chances for success. In Day 13, I will show you which words to eliminate and which words will boost your confidence.

Day 12: Ask for What You Want

What do you really want? No, really? It’s hard to ask for what you want from the person you want it from most, isn’t it? So much at stake. It’s scary to ask for something without any guarantee of satisfactory results. But it is necessary for you to be free. In Day 12, I will show you how to ask for what you want without feeling bad, selfish or guilty.

Day 11: Regrets

Regrets are deadly to our self-esteem, stifle our ability to act and keep us stuck in the past. Until we let go of our regrets, there is little hope for a different future. Day 11 is going to give you the tools to let regret go for good.

Day 10: Integration

It’s time to make sure you “got this.” Not just in theory but in practice. Integrating the tools each step of the way guarantees you can use them again and again now and forever. No matter what lies ahead these tools will be in your toolbox at the ready to set you free from any fear. I will put you through a drill to help you own that you’re doing better than you think you are.

Day 9: Shine Your Light

Have you ever secretly wished you could shout from the rafters: this is who I really am? But instead, did you find yourself putting your success down or unable to speak up when you most wanted to? Day 9 will show you how to give up judging yourself and learn how to shine your light. It’s integral to your ability to say YES to you!

Day 8: The Freedom of Discipline

When you use the power of discipline fueled by your true nature, it becomes an act of love. Let me show you the way to access a truer, more loving kind of discipline that will not make you rigid, strict or stuffy. When you access discipline because you want to, not because you have to, you’ll have more ease, grace and freedom.

Day 7: Are You Making It Up or Is It True?

Want more peace of mind? When I want to launch into full-on attack mode or shut myself down and hide or defend myself, this sentence brings me back to center and allows me to respond, instead of react. Your life is about to get a whole lot better.

Day 6: Stretch, Risk, or Die

Have you ever felt utterly stuck? It’s probably because you didn’t take into account the emotional toll it takes to break bad habits. (Logic alone isn’t enough.) My super secret tool guarantees that you will start taking action on the things that have felt insurmountable in the past. It’s easier than you think.

Day 5: Affirmations, Intentions, and Goals

Have you felt like a complete failure when it comes to affirmations? Me too. I’m going to show you why. Oh, and did you know that goals serve intentions, not the other way around? This is where most success gets sidetracked. I will show you when to use which tool and how to maximize your success.

Day 4: Purpose and Passion

Without purpose, passion can feel out of control and even, crazy. Without passion, purpose can seem dull and uninviting. Purpose and Passion must work hand-in-hand to light you up, inspire others and set your life on its Fearless Path. Day 4 will show you how.

Day 3: Building Your Confidence Muscle

Have you ever wanted more confidence? Day 3 will show you to own the confidence you have had in the past and how to create the confidence you need any time you need it. With confidence, all things are possible.

Day 2: Give Credit Where Credit is Due

Can you accept praise? If you have a hard time accepting compliments or giving yourself credit, Day 2 will give you a tool that will allow you to honor your hard work as well as allow you to receive love from others. (Wouldn’t that be nice.)

Day 1: A New Beginning

The truth is you can have it all. You can have the external things you crave while fulfilling your soul’s desires if you can answer ‘yes’ to these five questions.

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It Is Important For People To Take Risks Both In Their Professional Lives And Their Personal Lives – IELTS Writing Task 2

Updated On Feb 21, 2024

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IELTS Writing Prediction Questions & Answers : Free PDF

Table of Contents [ Show ]

• Structure Breakdown
• Band 7 Sample Answer 
• Band 8 Sample Answer 
• Band 9 Sample Answer
• Connectors Used in the Sample Answers

IELTS Writing Task 2 requires test-takers to compose a coherent essay in response to a given prompt. In Advantages-Disadvantages essays, candidates express their stance on a statement and support it with relevant arguments. Graded on a scale of 1 to 9, achieving a Band 7, 8, or 9, indicates varying levels of proficiency.

In this   IELTS Writing Task 2 Advantages-Disadvantages essay, we will challenge the notion that ‘It Is Important For People To Take Risks Both In Their Professional Lives And Their Personal Lives.’ We will look into the history of the objects, exploring multifaceted perspectives, and real-world examples.

Structural Breakdown

Type:  Advantage/Disadvantage Essay

Know How To Write With These 9 Expert Tips to Score a Band 8+ Now! ‘It Is Important For People To Take Risks, Both In Their Professional Lives And Their Personal Lives’ IELTS Writing Task 2 Answer!

9 Tips for IELTS 2023 Writing Task 2 (Target BAND 8+)

Band 7 Sample Answer For IELTS Writing Task 2 – ‘It Is Important For People To Take Risks Both In Their Professional Lives And Their Personal Lives’

Taking risks is an integral part of personal and professional growth. While there are inherent disadvantages associated with risks, the advantages often outweigh them. In the professional sphere, individuals who embrace risks are more likely to achieve significant success. For instance, entrepreneurs who take calculated risks are often rewarded with business prosperity. Similarly, employees who take on challenging projects may face temporary setbacks but stand a chance to gain recognition and career advancement in the long run.

In personal lives, risk-taking leads to enhanced experiences and personal development. People who step out of their comfort zones and take risks in relationships or trying new activities often find themselves enriched with new perspectives and skills. Traveling to unfamiliar places, for example, may involve risks, but the rewards in terms of cultural exposure and personal growth can be immeasurable.

However, it’s crucial to acknowledge the potential disadvantages of taking risks. In business, a risky venture can result in financial loss, and in personal relationships, it might lead to emotional setbacks. Striking the right balance between calculated risk and caution is key.

In conclusion, while there are downsides to taking risks, the potential rewards, both professionally and personally, are substantial. Individuals who navigate risks thoughtfully and learn from their experiences are more likely to find success and fulfillment in various aspects of life.

Band 7 Vocabulary

Meaning:  Necessary for completeness or essential.

Example:  Integrity is integral to building trust in any relationship.

Meaning:  The state of being successful or flourishing.

Example:  The economic prosperity of a nation depends on various factors.

Meaning:  Obstacles or reversals in progress.

Example:  Despite facing setbacks, she remained determined to achieve her goals.

Meaning:  Improved or enhanced in quality.

Example:  Reading diverse genres can lead to an enriched understanding of different cultures.

• Immeasurable

Meaning:  Too great to measure; beyond calculation.

Example:  The impact of a teacher’s guidance on a student’s life is often immeasurable.

Meaning:  Extremely important or necessary.

Example:  Proper communication is crucial for successful team collaboration.

Meaning:  To find a way through or across.

Example:  Leaders must navigate complex challenges to steer their organizations to success.

Meaning:  Disadvantages or negative aspects.

Example:  It’s essential to consider the downsides before making a significant decision.

• Fulfillment 

Meaning:  A sense of satisfaction or accomplishment.

Example:  Pursuing one’s passion often leads to a deeper sense of fulfillment.

• Thoughtfully

Meaning:  In a carefully considered manner.

Example:  She approached the problem thoughtfully, considering all possible solutions.

Band 8 Sample Answer For IELTS Writing Task 2 – ‘It Is Important For People To Take Risks Both In Their Professional Lives And Their Personal Lives’

The notion that taking risks is a pivotal factor in personal and professional development is underscored by the manifold advantages it offers. In the professional realm, risk-taking often translates into innovation and breakthroughs. Visionary leaders and pioneering entrepreneurs who dare to take risks propel their organizations to new heights. For instance, companies that invest in research and development, despite potential initial losses, often emerge as industry leaders, creating a ripple effect of progress.

On a personal level, embracing risks fosters resilience and adaptability. Individuals who face and overcome challenges are better equipped to handle unforeseen circumstances. This resilience becomes a crucial asset, especially in today’s dynamic world where change is constant. Furthermore, risk-taking is a catalyst for personal discovery. Trying out new hobbies, pursuing unconventional career paths, or initiating difficult conversations can lead to self-awareness and a deeper understanding of one’s capabilities.

Despite the undeniable advantages, it is imperative to recognize the potential downsides associated with risk-taking. In professional settings, a poorly calculated risk can result in financial turmoil for an organization. On a personal level, the emotional toll of a failed venture or a shattered relationship can be substantial. Striking a balance between audacity and prudence is essential to mitigate these potential drawbacks.

In conclusion, the benefits of taking risks, both in professional and personal spheres, are substantial. The courage to step into the unknown fosters growth, innovation, and resilience. However, it is essential to approach risk with a discerning eye, weighing the potential gains against the possible pitfalls.

Band 8 Vocabulary

Meaning:  Of crucial importance.

Example:  Effective communication is pivotal in building strong interpersonal relationships.

Meaning:  Many and various.

Example:  The project had manifold benefits, ranging from increased efficiency to cost savings.

Meaning:  Thinking about or planning the future with great imagination.

Example:  A visionary leader inspires others with a compelling vision for the future.

Meaning:  To drive, push, or cause to move in a particular direction.

Example:  Innovation and creativity often propel companies to stand out in the competitive market.

• Ripple Effect

Meaning:  A situation where an action or decision has a widespread impact.

Example:  Investing in education has a positive ripple effect on society, leading to overall development.

Meaning:  The ability to recover from difficulties or setbacks.

Example:  Building resilience is crucial in navigating the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

• Adaptability

Meaning:  The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.

Example:  The success of a business often depends on its adaptability to market trends.

Meaning:  Not anticipated or expected.

Example:  Unforeseen challenges can test an individual’s ability to think on their feet.

Meaning:  Something that precipitates a change or reaction.

Example:  Education acts as a catalyst for societal progress and development.

Meaning:  Showing good judgment or insight.

Example:  A discerning leader can make well-informed decisions in complex situations.

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Band 9 Sample Answer For IELTS Writing Task 2 – ‘It Is Important For People To Take Risks, Both In Their Professional Lives And Their Personal Lives’

Undoubtedly, the advantages of embracing risks in both professional and personal spheres are profound and transformative. In the professional domain, risk-taking is the cornerstone of innovation, driving industries forward and fostering economic growth. Visionary leaders not only recognize the importance of taking risks but also understand that the absence of risk equates to stagnation. For instance, Silicon Valley, a global hub of technological innovation, thrives on the ethos of risk-taking, where groundbreaking ideas and ventures often emerge from calculated risks.

Moreover, the benefits extend beyond immediate success. Individuals who consistently take risks develop a mindset that embraces challenges and values continuous learning. This mindset, often characterized by resilience and adaptability, is a distinguishing factor in high-achieving professionals. It enables them not only to navigate uncertainties but also to thrive in dynamic and competitive environments.

On a personal level, risk-taking is the crucible of self-discovery and personal growth. Those who venture into uncharted territories, whether in relationships or personal pursuits, unearth hidden facets of their character. This exploration leads to a profound understanding of oneself, fostering personal development and a richer, more nuanced worldview.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the potential downsides of risk-taking. A myopic approach, where risks are taken without due consideration, can lead to catastrophic consequences. Financial ruin, emotional distress, and damaged relationships are all possible outcomes of irresponsible risk-taking. Therefore, it is imperative for individuals to develop a discerning judgment, carefully evaluating risks and making informed decisions.

In conclusion, the advantages of taking risks are not merely about achieving success; they are about cultivating a mindset that propels both individuals and societies forward. While the potential pitfalls are real, they should not deter one from embracing risks responsibly. Ultimately, it is through calculated risks that true innovation, growth, and personal fulfillment are realized.

Band 9 Vocabulary

Meaning:  Having deep meaning or significance.

Example:  The philosopher’s insights were profound, challenging traditional perspectives.

• Transformative 

Meaning: Producing a marked change in form, nature, or character.

Example:  Education has the transformative power to uplift entire communities.

• Cornerstone: 

Meaning:  An essential or fundamental part.

Example: Trust is the cornerstone of any healthy and enduring relationship.

Meaning:  The characteristic spirit or culture of a community.

Example:  The company’s ethos of innovation drives its success in the tech industry.

• Groundbreaking 

Meaning:  Marking the beginning of a new trend or way of thinking.

Example:  The scientist’s groundbreaking research revolutionized the field of medicine.

• Characterized 

Meaning:  Described or identified as.

Example:  The city is characterized by its diverse architecture and cultural influences.

• Distinguishing

Meaning:  Making someone or something easily recognizable or notable.

Example:  His leadership style had distinguishing features that set him apart from others.

Meaning:  A place or situation in which different elements interact to produce something new.

Example:  The intense training program was the crucible of the team’s success.

Meaning:  To discover or bring to light.

Example:  The archaeologists unearthed ancient artifacts that provided insights into the past.

Meaning:  Lacking foresight or narrow-minded.

Example:  A myopic focus on short-term profits can compromise long-term sustainability.

Connectors That’ll Improve Your Writing Task 2 Score For The Topic ‘It Is Important For People To Take Risks, Both In Their Professional Lives And Their Personal Lives’

Connectors  play a crucial role in linking ideas and creating a smooth flow of information within a text. Here is a list of common connectors that can be used in the provided answers:

• Furthermore
• In addition
• On the other hand
• Nevertheless
• In contrast
• To illustrate
• Nonetheless
• To conclude

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It is Important for People to Take Risks, Both in Professional and Personal Lives - Task 2 Band 9

Updated: Apr 10

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives.

Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.

You should write at least 250 words.

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Model Essay 1

Navigating through life's myriad challenges requires a balance of prudence and daring. The crux of this discourse lies in whether the benefits of taking risks overshadow the potential drawbacks. This essay posits that the rewards of risk-taking, particularly in fostering innovation and personal growth, significantly outweigh the inherent disadvantages.

In the professional realm, embracing risk is fundamentally synonymous with the relentless pursuit of innovation and leadership. Consider the origin stories of numerous tech giants; their early days are replete with instances where calculated risks catalyzed groundbreaking innovations, propelling them to dominance in their respective industries. Google's early investment in a revolutionary algorithm to rank web pages transformed the dynamics of how information is accessed and shared, exemplifying how risk-taking is absolutely indispensable in pioneering significant change. Moreover, the willingness to venture into uncharted territories equips individuals with unparalleled resilience and adaptability, skills paramount in navigating today's rapidly evolving job market.

On the personal front, taking risks is undeniably pivotal in cultivating a deeply fulfilling life. It encourages individuals to boldly step out of their comfort zones, thereby facilitating significant personal growth and self-discovery. For instance, the decision to relocate to a new country for work or education, though daunting, opens up invaluable avenues for cultural exchange and broadening one's perspectives. Such enriching experiences significantly enhance one's character, fostering a profound sense of independence and self-efficacy. Furthermore, confronting fears and embracing the inherent uncertainty of life can lead to a more adventurous and vibrant existence, filled with compelling stories worth sharing and celebrating.

In conclusion, while risk-taking is inherently fraught with the potential for failure, the advantages it brings, both professionally and personally, are invaluable. It is the catalyst for innovation, personal growth, and resilience. Thus, despite the possible setbacks, the act of taking risks is a fundamental driver of progress and personal fulfillment, underscoring its predominant benefits over the disadvantages.

Sample Essay 2

In the tapestry of life, the threads of risk-taking are interwoven, playing a pivotal role in shaping both our professional and personal landscapes. This essay contends that the merits of embracing risks far surpass the potential drawbacks, particularly in the realms of career advancement and personal fulfillment.

Professionally, risk-taking is synonymous with innovation and progress. Consider the realm of entrepreneurship, where individuals like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos embarked on ventures fraught with uncertainty. Musk’s investment in SpaceX, despite initial failures, revolutionized space travel, exemplifying how risk-taking can lead to epoch-making breakthroughs. Similarly, in the corporate sphere, employees who embrace risks by spearheading novel projects or adopting untested strategies often find themselves climbing the career ladder more swiftly. These instances demonstrate that while risk can entail the possibility of failure, its absence might result in stagnation, a far more insidious threat to professional growth.

In the personal domain, risk-taking often manifests in the pursuit of meaningful relationships and life experiences. Venturing into new social circles or initiating significant life changes, like relocating for a dream job or pursuing a passion, can lead to profound personal growth and happiness. For example, the decision to study or work abroad, though daunting, often results in expanded worldviews and lifelong connections. Thus, the risks we take in our personal lives, while potentially exposing us to vulnerabilities, are instrumental in crafting a rich, fulfilling life narrative. However, it is essential to acknowledge that risk-taking, devoid of prudence, can lead to adverse outcomes. The key, therefore, lies in calculated risks – those informed by careful consideration and sound judgment.

In conclusion, the act of taking risks, when approached with foresight and balance, predominantly tilts the scales towards positive outcomes. The amalgamation of professional courage and personal audacity not only paves the way for groundbreaking achievements and enriching life experiences but also ignites the spark of innovation and personal growth, making it an indispensable element in the odyssey of human success and satisfaction.

Sample Essay 3

The act of taking risks is often seen as an essential stepping stone towards success in both one's personal and professional life. While such actions can lead to uncertain outcomes and potential setbacks, the rewards that can be reaped when risks are taken judiciously often far surpass the potential downsides. This essay will argue that the advantages of risk-taking, when approached wisely, generally outweigh the disadvantages, providing a catalyst for personal growth, fostering resilience, and encouraging innovation.

Risk-taking, though potentially leading to adverse outcomes, can also be the catalyst for substantial rewards and advancements. The potential ramifications are hard to deny: an individual choosing to abandon a secure salaried job for an entrepreneurial venture, for instance, may find themselves in a precarious situation of financial instability, affecting their mental well-being and family life. High-risk activities such as skydiving or mountaineering could also lead to severe physical injuries due to the inherent risks involved. Simultaneously, however, an excess of caution and predictability can inhibit personal and professional growth. A complacent employee, despite dissatisfaction in their current role, may see their motivation for self-improvement dwindle and miss opportunities for career progression.

In the realm of personal relationships, those limiting themselves to a narrow social circle might stunt their emotional growth. Conversely, those willing to broaden their social horizons often cultivate empathy, resilience, and a more expansive perspective on life, which is particularly beneficial in societies where social interactions are somewhat constricted. It's crucial to note that risk-taking does not imply recklessness; it often involves careful assessment, robust decision-making, and resilience - invaluable life skills. An iconic example is Elon Musk, CEO of SpaceX. Known for his calculated risk-taking, Musk ventured into the risky domain of private space travel, investing personal capital, overcoming significant challenges, and ultimately revolutionizing the aerospace industry.

In conclusion, while risk-taking can indeed pose certain threats, its advantages, when approached thoughtfully, significantly outweigh the potential hazards. The willingness to step out of one's comfort zone, coupled with strategic planning, offers broad benefits, from career advancements to enriched personal relationships.

Sample Essay 4

Some contend that taking a risk has more advantages than disadvantages for both individuals and professions. Although it sacrifices security and predictability, I am certain that choosing hazardous alternatives has benefits that outweigh the drawbacks since it opens up new chances.

Risk-taking may have a negative impact on your finances as well as your physical health, whether it be through unforeseen injuries, car accidents, or spending money on exciting travel destinations. Even if you want to take risks in business, there are times when doing too many risky things might end up costing you too much money to keep going. If your carelessness results in an accident that injures you or another else, you may be held liable for any damages. This will not only deplete your current budget but also increase the cost of your car insurance in the future. Unjustified risk-taking may have additional negative effects on your money. Some people take a risk by deciding not to budget or live within their means. Impulsive spending and extravagant purchases could at first seem adventurous and daring, but they will gradually undermine one's riches and self-respect over time.

But going with the tried-and-true method is the most boring option. When you travel, staying with the herd will enable you to see the traditional, well-travelled locations. If you adopt other people's business or dating approaches, you'll develop a regular clientele. However, taking risks forces you to step outside of your comfort zone and use your imagination. When you take a chance, you have to come up with novel ideas and capture novel opportunities. By putting yourself in uncommon situations, taking chances enables you to develop unanticipated relationships. For instance, you typically are ignorant of how good two unrelated things may be unless you can combine them.

In conclusion, I still think that grabbing chances is far more productive and profitable in the long run, even though adopting a risk-taking attitude could have detrimental impacts on one's health and wealth.

Sample Essay 5

The choices that individuals make in their lives have far-reaching consequences. Taking risks can have a significant impact their career and personal relationships. In this essay, I will discuss as to why risk-taking is more beneficial than harmful in our lives.

There are multiple advantages in taking risks, both in our professional as well as personal lives. With respect to our work, this leads to better innovation, unexpected discoveries and technological disruptions. For example, venture capitalists invest in fledgling start-ups with the expectation of giving rise to next big thing like Facebook, Amazon. Without the inherent risk involved in making these decisions, we would not have today’s great technological giants. In our personal lives too, taking a leap of faith can be fruitful in finding a suitable life companion and making new friends. The current array of dating and social networking apps certainly embody an element of risk. Although meeting strangers via these can be disconcerting to many, it increases our chances of creating more meaningful relationships. Therefore, these positive aspects surely merits people to take risks in their lives.

However, the downsides to risk-tasking also do exist. In the professional setting, risk can play the role of a double-edged sword in many instances. Investing by taking on additional risk in unproven companies can possibly result in sizeable monetary losses. Indulging in risk-taking behaviour can also negatively impact our personal lives. It can lead to bodily injuries, self-harm, substance abuse and addictions. This is most evident in our youth who are driven by peer pressure to experiment with risky activities such as gambling, speeding while driving and consumption of harmful drugs.

In conclusion, even though there are certain disadvantages to taking risks, I think the advantages outweigh them. It plays an important role in people’s personal and professional lives enriching their careers and relationships. The lost opportunities without risk-tasking are unimaginable.

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Essay on Taking Risks In Life

Students are often asked to write an essay on Taking Risks In Life in their schools and colleges. And if you’re also looking for the same, we have created 100-word, 250-word, and 500-word essays on the topic.

Let’s take a look…

100 Words Essay on Taking Risks In Life

What is risk-taking.

Risk-taking is a part of life. It involves doing something that is uncertain or has a chance of leading to a negative outcome. Taking risks can be scary, but it can also lead to great rewards.

Why Take Risks?

There are many reasons why people take risks. Sometimes, we take risks to achieve something that we want, such as a new job or a better education. Other times, we take risks to avoid something that we don’t want, such as a bad grade or a broken relationship.

Benefits of Risk-Taking

Taking risks can have many benefits. It can help us to learn new things, grow as people, and achieve our goals. Taking risks can also make life more exciting and adventurous.

Risks of Risk-Taking

Of course, taking risks also has some risks. We might not achieve what we want, or we might even experience negative consequences. However, the potential rewards of risk-taking often outweigh the risks.

How to Take Risks Safely

250 words essay on taking risks in life, taking risks in life.

Taking risks is a part of life. There are few things worth doing that don’t involve some risk. Also, the bigger the risk, the bigger the potential reward. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of any risk before you take it. As there are times when it’s better to play it safe.

Calculated Risks vs Uncalculated Risks

Risk can be calculated or uncalculated. Calculated risks are those where you take the time to assess the situation and make an informed decision. Uncalculated risks are those where you jump in without thinking. In general, it is wise to take calculated risks rather than uncalculated risks. Of course, there are some cases where it is necessary to take uncalculated risks, but these should be the exception rather than the rule.

Always Have a Backup Plan

You should always have a backup plan in place before you take a risk. This means having a plan for what you will do if things don’t go as planned. Having a backup plan will help you to feel more confident about taking risks, knowing that you have a safety net to fall back on.

Learn from Your Mistakes

It is important to learn from your mistakes when you take risks. This means taking the time to reflect on what went wrong and how you can avoid making the same mistake in the future. Learning from your mistakes will help you to become a more effective risk-taker.

Don’t Be Afraid to Fail

Taking risks means that you are going to fail sometimes. This is a natural part of the process. Don’t be afraid to fail. Instead, learn from your failures and move on.

500 Words Essay on Taking Risks In Life

Why should you take risks in life.

Taking risks is a part of life. It involves stepping outside of your comfort zone and trying something new. While it can be scary, taking calculated risks can lead to big rewards, such as personal growth, new experiences, and increased self-confidence. It can also help you to overcome your fears and develop resilience.

How to Take Calculated Risks

Taking risks doesn’t mean making impulsive decisions or acting recklessly. Instead, it means carefully weighing the potential pros and cons of a situation and making an informed decision about whether or not to take the risk. Here are a few tips for taking calculated risks:

Benefits of Taking Risks

Taking risks is a part of life. It can be scary, but it’s also essential for personal growth and success. By taking calculated risks, you can open yourself up to new experiences, learn and grow as a person, and build confidence. So don’t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and take a risk every now and then.

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Home — Essay Samples — Life — Hero — Risk Taking

Risk Taking Essay Examples

The importance of writing an essay on risk taking.

Writing an essay on risk taking is important because it helps individuals understand the significance of taking risks in various aspects of life. Whether it is in personal relationships, career choices, or business ventures, taking risks is a crucial part of growth and success. By exploring this topic through writing, individuals can gain valuable insights into the benefits and potential consequences of risk taking.

When writing an essay on risk taking, it is important to consider the following tips:

• Define the Concept: Start by defining what risk taking means and its significance in different contexts. This will provide a clear understanding of the topic for the readers.
• Provide Examples: Incorporate real-life examples of individuals or companies who have taken risks and the outcomes they experienced. This can help illustrate the impact of risk taking.
• Discuss the Benefits and Drawbacks: Analyze the potential benefits and drawbacks of taking risks. This will provide a balanced perspective on the topic.
• Offer Personal Insights: Share personal experiences or insights on risk taking to make the essay more relatable and engaging for the readers.
• Emphasize the Importance of Calculated Risks: Highlight the importance of making informed and calculated decisions when taking risks, rather than acting impulsively.
• Conclude with Key Takeaways: Summarize the key points and lessons learned from the essay, leaving the readers with valuable insights to ponder.

Overall, writing an essay on risk taking can provide a platform for individuals to explore and understand the significance of taking risks in life. It can also serve as a tool for personal reflection and growth, allowing individuals to assess their own approach to risk taking and make informed decisions in the future.

• The psychological impact of risk-taking on individuals

Risk-taking is a behavior that involves engaging in activities with uncertain outcomes, often with the potential for both positive and negative consequences. It is a fundamental aspect of human nature, and individuals engage in risk-taking behavior for a variety of reasons. Some people may seek out risky activities as a way to experience excitement and adrenaline, while others may take risks in pursuit of personal or professional goals.

The psychological impact of risk-taking can be complex and multifaceted. For some individuals, engaging in risky behavior can lead to feelings of exhilaration and a sense of accomplishment. However, for others, it can result in feelings of anxiety, fear, and regret. Additionally, risk-taking behavior can also have long-term consequences for an individual's mental health and well-being.

• One potential topic for an essay on risk-taking could explore the psychological factors that drive individuals to engage in risky behavior. This could include an examination of the role of personality traits, such as sensation-seeking and impulsivity, in influencing an individual's propensity for risk-taking. Additionally, the essay could also delve into the impact of environmental factors, such as peer influence and societal norms, on an individual's willingness to take risks.
• Another potential topic for an essay on risk-taking could focus on the relationship between risk-taking behavior and mental health. This could involve an exploration of the ways in which risk-taking can both positively and negatively impact an individual's psychological well-being. For example, the essay could examine how risk-taking behavior can provide a sense of excitement and fulfillment, but also lead to feelings of stress and anxiety.
• Furthermore, an essay on risk-taking could also explore the potential long-term consequences of engaging in risky behavior. This could include an analysis of the ways in which repeated exposure to risk-taking activities can desensitize individuals to potential dangers, leading to a greater likelihood of engaging in even riskier behavior in the future. Additionally, the essay could also examine the ways in which risk-taking can contribute to the development of mental health issues, such as addiction and substance abuse.

The psychological impact of risk-taking on individuals is a complex and multifaceted topic that can be explored in a variety of ways. By examining the factors that drive individuals to engage in risky behavior, the relationship between risk-taking and mental health, and the long-term consequences of risk-taking, it is possible to gain a deeper understanding of the psychological implications of this fundamental aspect of human nature.

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Essay Samples on Risk Taking

Risk-taking is a fundamental aspect of human nature. It’s an inherent part of progress, innovation, and achievement. By pushing the boundaries of what is known and venturing into uncharted territories, individuals have propelled themselves and society forward. Taking risks involves a willingness to confront uncertainty, face challenges, and overcome obstacles. It requires resilience, adaptability, and a belief in one’s own abilities.

Writing a College Essay About Taking Risks

A college essay about taking risks provides a unique opportunity to delve into the multidimensional nature of risk-taking. In your essay you can:

• explore different types of risks, such as intellectual, emotional, physical, or social risks.
• examine the motivations behind risk-taking and the potential rewards and consequences that accompany it.
• discuss how risk-taking can lead to personal growth, expanded horizons, and the development of essential life skills such as decision-making, problem-solving, and resilience.
• explore the challenges individuals face in assessing risks, weighing potential outcomes, and making informed decisions
• analyze the role of risk-taking in entrepreneurship, scientific breakthroughs, artistic endeavors, and personal relationships.

To craft an exceptional essay on “Risk Taking,” begin by reflecting on your own journey. Recall moments when you dared to challenge the status quo, overcome fears, and make bold choices. Share anecdotes that highlight your resilience, determination, and ability to embrace uncertainty. Consider the lessons you learned along the way and how they shaped your character and worldview.

To enhance the depth of your taking risks essay, include relevant research findings, expert opinions, and statistical data. Support your arguments with credible sources and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Conclude your essay with a thought-provoking summary that leaves readers inspired to embrace risk-taking and embark on their own transformative journeys. Encourage them to consider the balance between calculated risks and reckless behavior, emphasizing the importance of learning from both successes and failures.

Definition Of Heroism As A Self Deserving Act

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The Role of Technical Workers in Theatre Industry

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The Book Report - The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine

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Risk Taking of Commercial and Retail Bank

Introduction Without taking the risk, banks, the important financial institution, cannot be in running order (Matthews & Thompson, 2014). In business term, bank is defined as an institution authorized by a government which provide financial services, for example, accepting deposits, paying interest, making loans, etc.,...

Influences of Risk Taking Behaviors During Adolescence

The fact is, risk taking behaviors increase during adolescence, but the reason behind this behavioral change is still up for debate. There is speculation that risk taking behavior is a result of hormonal changes during puberty, and the brain’s socio emotional system seeks to increase...

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Effect of Terrorism on Risk Taking and Investment Decision

Abstract: This article focuses on fear of terrorism as one important factors effecting risk taking and investment decision in today’s economy. We argue that external security threats can undermine incumbent target governments by exposing foreign policy failures and damaging society’s general well-being. Identifying who is...

Outcomes Of Locus Of Control Among Drug Abusers: Role Of Perceived Social Support

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Risk Factors Of Stress In The Workplace

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Best topics on Risk Taking

1. Definition Of Heroism As A Self Deserving Act

2. The Role of Technical Workers in Theatre Industry

3. The Book Report – The Big Short: Inside the Doomsday Machine

4. Risk Taking of Commercial and Retail Bank

5. Influences of Risk Taking Behaviors During Adolescence

6. Effect of Terrorism on Risk Taking and Investment Decision

7. Outcomes Of Locus Of Control Among Drug Abusers: Role Of Perceived Social Support

8. Risk Factors Of Stress In The Workplace

9. The Health Risk Factors Of Lack Of Proper And Regular Fuel Availability

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Success in life comes from taking risks or chances

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people believe that success in life comes from taking risks or chances. Others believe that success results from careful planning. In your opinion, what does success come from?

Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

You should write at least 250 words.

Sample Answer 1:

People have different views on how to achieve success as some believe that we should take risks for being successful, while others think measured planning is the key to success. The following essay will discuss both views in details.

On the one hand, it is a fact that taking risks is one of the most important keys to success. Risk takers are smart and innovative people as they have creative ideas and planning and they dare to take chances. Should the plan work out, people would start to recognise and  get attracted to their ideas and output, and soon it might become a big fortune for them. For example, in 2005 Steve Jobs created the Ipad tablet which was a newly developed product at that time. Although there was a risk of failure, he took the risk of launching the product to the world and in the end, the tablet became a sensational device all over the world.

On the other hand, some people think the only way to success is through careful and precise planning. They believe that in order to take new steps in life or to make a new business product, people should have a good feasibility study and proper planning. By having a good measurable planning, they would already anticipate and mitigate the risk should there be any failure in the plan.

In my opinion, I believe in the combination of both ideas as people must have plans and dreams in their life and the way to achieve that dream is through making action plans and take the risk.

[By – Darwin Lesmana ]

Sample Answer 2:

Some people think that taking risks and chances will lead them to success. From my everyday experience and observation, I believe that success results from careful planning. I base my position on the following points.

First of all, I believe that careful planning helps a person to analyse his goal more deeply and make realistic goals. He knows exactly what he wants. Taking chances, from the other hand, does not give the opportunity to clearly understand a goal. A person just wants to do something to move forward and he takes risks when there is no need of it. A fixed plan helps a person to achieve it and make the person more determined and object oriented than those who don’t have a fixed aim.

Second, careful planning teaches people to arrange their time more carefully in order to reach their goals. They become more patient and calm. They plan every step. This allows people to find an easier way to reach their goals and  move forward faster. From the other hand, people who prefer to take risks without planning may spend more time without any improvements waiting for a chance to take. Take sportsmen for example. They exercise a lot before their performance to be in shape, do all their best and improve their previous results.

Finally, careful planning teaches them not to give up, try to find other ways to reach their goals in the case of failure. To sum up, personally, I think that all people who succeeded in life would agree with me that their success came with the hard work and careful planning.

(Approximately369words) (This model answer has been prepared by the site developer. However, please note that this is just one example out of many possible answers.)

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Taking Risks In Life: Why You Should + How To Do It Right

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Do you ever look back at your life and wish that you had made a different decision or taken another path?

When reflecting on these times, can you remember why you chose one direction over another?

Most people will answer that they were afraid to choose the riskier option because of what could have happened if they did. As such, they chose the easier, safer, or more certain option because they knew it carried less chance of embarrassment or failure.

That said, most people end up deeply regretting the chances they didn’t take, rather than being haunted by the temporary discomfort of embarrassment or rejection. In fact, one of the top deathbed regrets that people have is that they didn’t take more risks in life.

So, what does risk-taking look like? Why is it important? And what is the best approach to taking them?

Speak to an accredited and experienced therapist to help you take more and greater risks in life if this is something you struggle to do. You may want to try speaking to one via BetterHelp.com for quality care at its most convenient.

What does it mean to take risks?

The basic definition of taking a risk is going ahead and doing something even though you know the consequences might be less than awesome. For example, asking someone out on a date is taking a risk because they might turn you down and that would hurt you emotionally.

Similarly, going skydiving is risky because your parachute might not open and you could end up splattered in a field amongst terrified and contemptuous cattle.

Some situations are riskier than others (as mentioned above) and are even labeled as such. There are also lower-risk endeavors that aren’t quite as daunting.

Low-risk financial investments, for example, are considered a sure thing. You might not get as much of a monetary return on your investment, but it’s unlikely that you’ll lose much money, if any at all. In contrast, high-risk investments often offer the possibility of a massive return… but there’s just as much of a chance that you’ll lose the shirt off your back.

Essentially, to take a risk means doing something, anything, in which the outcome is uncertain.

Why is it important to take risks?

It’s said that nothing is certain in life other than death and taxes, which means that every single thing we do requires some measure of risk.

People are very keen to “stay safe” these days, but there is no such thing as real safety. To live an authentic, fulfilled life requires one to throw themselves off proverbial cliffs on the daily and discover whether they’ll sink or soar.

Risk is something we need to do in order to experience the life we’ve been blessed with. Below are just some of the reasons why it’s so important to take risks on a regular basis.

How can you get to know who you are if you don’t try different things?

I recently came across a blog post in which someone was talking about their “safe foods.” This person wasn’t neurodivergent, nor did they suffer from any kind of food allergies. Instead, they stuck to foods they knew and were comfortable with because they were “afraid” of what other foods might taste like.

They thought that things like coffee, Thai food, and samosas smelled amazing, but they were just too damned scared to try them.

Look at some of your favorite foods and ask yourself how sad it would be if you had to go through life without ever having tried them. After all, you obviously weren’t born loving fettuccine carbonara or burritos. You had to risk a potentially unpleasant sensation in your mouth in order to determine whether they were good or not. But how sad would your life be without the amazing foods that you adore?

All of life is like this.

Every single thing you like was new to you once and, therefore, had a risk associated with trying it. You slowly become the person you were destined to be by stepping out of your comfort zone again and again.

You’ll never know unless you try.

I’ve known people who have fallen into deep pits of depression because they haven’t gotten the job they wanted, nor gotten together with a lover they were aching for, simply because they were too afraid of rejection or failure. They’ve literally spent decades lamenting “the one that got away,” except that person or job opportunity didn’t “get away,” they weren’t even attempted.

I once asked a friend of mine why he never bothered going after a girl he was completely in love with, and he told me that he wouldn’t have been able to deal with it if she had rejected him.

There have been so many situations in which people have been into each other, but since neither of them took the initiative to let the other know, those chances for connection were squandered.

Yes, it may hurt for a while if the person you desire doesn’t reciprocate that affection, but it would be so much worse to find out 40 years later that the person you loved actually felt the same but didn’t think you were interested because you didn’t take that leap of faith.

The biggest contributing factor to people not doing things is fear. In particular, it’s fear of the unknown and all the “what if” anxieties associated with it. Most people talk themselves out of doing things because they’re more hung up on the potential negative aspects than the positive ones.

Here’s an example: let’s say you really want to get into martial arts, but you have a lot of fear associated with it. Maybe you have a bit of social anxiety or you’re scared about how much it’s going to hurt when you get hit at the dojo. As a result, you’ll find reasons to talk yourself out of it.

The people there are going to be too aggro. You don’t want to have to deal with other people’s sweat, and so on. In fact, you’re better off without that mess!

In reality, this isn’t the case at all. In fact, at a good dojo, you will undoubtedly get your fair share of bumps, strikes, and the wind knocked out of you… but that’s exactly the kind of physical and emotional conditioning you’d need to fare well in a street fight.

Everything will suck at the beginning, because both your muscles and your mind will be unused to that particular kind of training and exercise. The movements will feel clunky and unfamiliar, and you may get hurt a bit before you learn how to block properly. But that’s okay. That’s what your teacher is for and that’s why you have the opportunity to practice with others.

The teacher will push you hard, but they’ll also take good care of you. The people you spar with aren’t specifically out to hurt you. They’re practicing their technique, as are you! Besides, getting hurt because you didn’t block their strikes is a great way to improve your defensive techniques, right?

You’ll develop invaluable coping mechanisms.

Have you ever wondered why certain friends of yours don’t seem to be plagued with anxiety or self-doubt? Instead, they tend to approach and deal with situations with confidence and self-assurance.

That isn’t because they’re secretly deities walking around in human costumes. Rather, it’s because they’ve exposed themselves to countless difficult situations and learned to cope with the outcomes accordingly.

I’ve seen people refuse to read books that they know they’d love just in case they see a word or phrase that “triggers” them and makes them uncomfortable. Rather than exposing themselves to it enough times that it stops bothering them, they’ll run away and hide from it, thus making themselves even more sensitive to it in the future.

Risks allow us to build up resistances and grow thicker skin. Life is going to throw difficulty at all of us, so it’s a good idea to learn how to cope.

For example, whenever someone travels, there’s a risk that their luggage will be lost. It’s frustrating when that happens, but it’s not the end of the world. You learn to pack essentials into your carry-on and make do until the airport returns the luggage to you. And if that doesn’t happen, you can pick up a few replacement items to get you through.

After you’ve learned once that you can handle such a situation, it will be less likely to cause you anxiety in the future.

You know you can handle it, so why worry?

Being expansive is far more rewarding than being contractive.

When we’re afraid or hesitant, we contract into ourselves. This is where we get the description of someone “shrinking” in fear. In contrast, when we’re courageous, we expand. We literally open our hearts and minds to the potential of greatness.

There is no life without risk.

If you use a car to go shopping for groceries this week, you risk being T-boned in an intersection by a drunk driver. Do you plan on showering sometime soon, despite the risk of slipping and breaking your neck? How about eating? With every bite, you risk choking to death or having a new allergic reaction to something.

Get the idea? Absolutely every single thing you do involves risk of some sort. There’s no avoiding it, and there’s always the possibility of failure or devastation around any corner.

Many people are wracked with anxiety about the possibility of failure, so they hold themselves back from countless things that could bring them joy or success just in case things don’t work out. They don’t want to risk embarrassment, disappointment, or potential failure.

The thing is, the only way you are guaranteed to fail is if you don’t try at all.

Besides, there’s no success without failure. When we misstep at something, we try again until we get it right, and we learn an extraordinary amount in the process. Furthermore, I don’t know about you, but I’d rather risk and fail miserably than spend forever wondering what might have been if I’d actually had the courage to try.

How to take calculated risks.

The best way to deal with risk-taking is to approach it from a methodological standpoint. Sure, we’ve all done risky things at the spur of the moment, but most risks we take in life will be calculated ones we’ve considered carefully over time.

1. Do your research.

Quite simply, understand as much about what you’re about to do as you possibly can before actually doing it. The reason for this is because the light of knowledge generally dispels the shadow of fear. When you have answers and information at your disposal, you’ll feel a lot less anxiety about potential missteps. Uncertainty can never been completely overcome, but it can be minimized.

A great example would be trying rock climbing. Throwing yourself into outdoor rock climbing without any practice would be extremely high risk; however, a lower, calculated risk would be to learn all you can before you do it.

Go to an indoor climbing gym and take lessons from professional climbers. This would include learning how to tie climbing ropes properly, how to use carabiners, what type of clothing and shoes are best to wear, and what to do if x, y, or z goes wrong so you know what to do in case of an accident or unforeseen adversity.

Build up hand, wrist, and leg strength with weights and elastic bands. Practice climbing in the beginner area, and work your way up (literally). This will take time, but give it a few months and you’ll be strong and confident enough to do an outdoor climb with the help of seasoned professionals.

You’ll have an incredible time while gaining confidence in your own abilities. In fact, that confidence will spill out into other areas of your life, so the next time you feel anxiety or trepidation about a situation, you’ll remember how you overcame your worries and managed to climb a literal mountain. If you can do that, imagine what else you can achieve!

2. Determine whether the benefits outweigh the potential downsides.

Chances are you weigh the pros and cons of various risks on the regular. For example, you know how delicious that gutbuster 3000 burrito is going to be as it tantalizes your taste buds and makes you purr in gustatory delight, but how are you going to feel in a few hours? Will that abdominal trainwreck be worth the momentary deliciousness?

Do this same pro/con weighing for every risk you’re thinking of taking. Write down all the good points that you think will be associated with this endeavor, as well as all the potential downsides that may occur.

Then, if you find that the good points outweigh the bad, consider proceeding. If, however, the “this is going to end really badly” list is several times longer than the benefits package, you may want to reconsider it.

Or, if you’re like me, you might try it anyway just to see what happens and deal with the consequences as they unfold.

3. Consider all the potential outcomes.

Whenever you’re planning something—be it a home renovation project or a trip—it’s important to try to anticipate all potential difficulties. By doing so, you can determine how to deal with these eventualities and create contingency plans for all of them.

As you can imagine, a great approach when considering doing potentially stupid things is to anticipate anything and everything that could go wrong, and then envision how you’d deal with them.

I recently watched some videos of professional snowboarders who travel the world, bravely boarding down the Rockies and lower Andes in Patagonia. These guys throw themselves down slopes that could kill them if an unexpected avalanche happened, and each one of them has suffered fractures, dislocations, and concussions. They all know that each trip could potentially be their last, but you know what? They do it all over and over again anyway.

They would rather risk getting severely hurt than give up the closest sensation to flying that they’ll ever have.

4. Do the small stuff first.

This expands upon what we said about practicing bit by bit before taking on something big. It’s swimming in the shallow end of a pool while wearing water wings instead of diving off a boat into the ocean.

Just like climbing the beginner wall at the gym, you can start with low-risk/high-return ventures that can help to build up your self-confidence.

Start lifting 10lbs and doing repeated reps at the gym instead of throwing your back out lifting 100lbs. Cook a simple breakfast dish and expand your culinary repertoire one ingredient at a time, instead of risking defeat (and a potential nervous breakdown) trying to cook an entire holiday dinner for the first time.

As you grow more confident in your abilities, you’ll naturally be able to handle larger and more demanding potentialities. Additionally—and this is massive—your self-confidence will be bolstered enough that a small setback will simply be an obstacle to overcome, rather than a crushing defeat.

5. Psych yourself up.

In addition to learning all you can about the thing that you’re getting ready to risk doing, be sure to psych yourself up for it in the most positive way possible. Create a music playlist that gets you going or maybe have a uniform of some type (like a lucky Iron Maiden T-shirt) that you can wear to put yourself in the right mindset.

Focus on bringing as much positive energy to this as possible, even if you’re trembling deep down.

Some people even find that a dose of liquid courage (like a shot of whiskey) can help to boost their confidence and courage just enough to get past their fearful hesitation.

6. Feel the fear and do it anyway.

Courage isn’t the absence of fear: it’s getting on with things even though you’re shaking in your boots. You may feel scared or anxious as you’re about to do the risky thing, but you’ll feel immensely relieved after you’ve done it.

Even if it doesn’t go the way you’ve planned, you can feel a huge amount of pride and satisfaction in the fact that you didn’t let your own worries or potential failure stop you from pursuing something (or someone) you wanted.

So, it’s not a case of learning how to be fearless , but rather forging a healthier relationship with fear.

7. If it doesn’t work out, regroup and try again.

If you don’t get the job that you really wanted, it’s okay to feel disappointed. The key is not to allow yourself to fall into a pit of despair. Instead, ask the hiring team if they could give you some insights as to why you didn’t get the position.

If they tell you about shortcomings they found (e.g., problems with your resume, certain behaviors during the interview process), then you can take steps to improve them. This way, you’ll be better prepared for the next job that you apply for.

Alternatively, if they tell you that you did everything right, but the other person was just a tiny bit more qualified, then you know there isn’t a problem with you at all; you just need a bit more experience.

Similarly, if you take a risk and ask someone out, and they tell you that they’re not interested, try not to be completely crushed by it. We all have our perceptions of what people are like, but that doesn’t mean that’s who they really are. Furthermore, we don’t know what’s going on in their heads. If someone says they’re not interested, it’s unlikely that there’s anything wrong with you personally, it’s just not a great match.

See this as a blessing rather than a defeat. You two might have gotten together and had a seriously unpleasant time, only to end things on a sour note. Instead, you’ve had practice approaching someone, and you survived them turning you down!

So now you can approach a person who’s likely better suited to you and know that if they decline as well, you’ll survive that too. Best of all, when you connect with a person who’s right for you, it’ll be that much sweeter.

See this as learning to fail with grace. Kindness, courage, composure, faith, and unrelenting will can get you through the most trying of situations. You’ll learn from each and every one of them and become a better, brighter version of yourself as a result.

How to find the courage to take your chances in life:

Taking risks can be intimidating, but it’s also immensely fulfilling. Additionally, it’s likely that you already have more courage than you give yourself credit for—it’s merely been hiding behind shields of social expectations and ingrained self-doubt.

Here are a few things you can do to help you find the courage to take your chances.

Let go of fear.

As we talked about earlier, the main thing that holds people back from living their best life is fear. It’s all in your mind, and has no real power over you unless you grant it some. When you feel fear rising up, ask yourself if you know what you’re feeling is real and true. If it isn’t, then why are you afraid of it?

Seek things out for yourself, rather than taking another person’s word for it.

How often have you heard people say that they’re afraid of doing something because someone they know had a bad experience? Quite often, things that intimidate us are terrifying until we learn the truth of them. Then, the weight of the situation dissipates like mist.

Whatever it is, look into it and get practical know-how and experience. For example, many teens are terrified by the idea of driving, but it quickly becomes second nature once they’ve been behind the wheel a few times.

Try to avoid overanalyzing .

Many people hold themselves back from doing things they really want to do because they “what if?” themselves into paralysis. Think about all the things you’ve ever experienced, and ask yourself whether any of them have ever unfolded exactly the way you dreamed of.

We can never see all ends, so it’s a good idea to flow with things rather than trying to analyze and anticipate every possibility.

Immerse yourself in media that inspires you.

Listen to music that uplifts you and makes you want to look to the sky and roar. Ignore or avoid media that fills you with anxiety or lowers your self-esteem. Furthermore, don’t waste your time getting into battles with trolls online. Refocus that energy into endeavors that inspire and energize you.

Choose inspiring heroes.

This expands upon the media exposure mentioned above. If the heroes in a film or TV series you’re watching spend the entire time awkwardly flailing, stumbling, and apologizing, then find other, better heroes!

Watch or read things where the characters are brave, resourceful, and skilled rather than bumbling, hesitant, and crippled by anxiety. More Aragorn or Katniss Everdeen, less Sheldon Cooper or Willow Rosenberg.

Be true to yourself.

We now live in an era where being strong, brave, and assertive is looked down upon, while those who are timid and apologetic are lauded as role models. You can be courteous, gentle, and kind and still be very brave and fierce.

Love and courage are expansive forces, and they are also rather contagious. When people see others standing up and fighting for what’s right and true, that inspires them to get over their own fears and do the same.

Ask yourself what kind of life you want to live.

A person who risks nothing may avoid temporary discomfort or disappointment, but they’ll be guaranteed to experience an exceptional amount of regret. They’ll simply plod safely through life without any thrills, elation, or amazing stories to tell about the time they nearly broke themselves in half doing that incredible thing that was the highlight of the decade.

What kind of a life would that be? If we don’t seize opportunities that are offered to us, we deny ourselves the chance to live fully. To do this one must take risks, upset the boat, and be prepared to argue and fight if need be in order to live authentically and to defend that which is ours.

Many people tamp down their true natures so as to fit in better with those around them, but that takes its toll. If you’ve been holding back from doing the things you really love, or being yourself around others because they find you “too intense” or “too much,” then consider changing your social circle. Having to be less than what you are to make others more comfortable wears down one’s spirit over time.

That isn’t a recommendation to immediately cast aside all your friends and family members and go cliff diving without any practice, of course. The middle road is often the best option here.

Weigh your pros and cons as mentioned, take those calculated risks, and don’t be put off if things don’t go the way you want them to. Honestly, 99 times out of 100, things unfold as they should rather than how we might want or expect them to go. Furthermore, they usually end up being far better than we expected.

I’ll tell you this right now: I’ve taken a lot (and I mean A LOT ) of risks in my life, and I wouldn’t be who or where I am now without them. Some had disastrous results, and I’d be lying if I said that I haven’t experienced more than my fair share of physical injuries as well as heartbreak. But each experience—even the awful ones—was a learning experience that I would never have had anywhere else.

Each of these experiences taught me incredible lessons, for which I couldn’t be more grateful. I have great memories and stories to tell, and I treasure the people I have in my life, all of whom I would never have known had I not thrown myself off the proverbial cliff. It all goes to show that taking risks can lead to joy and fulfilment that you never thought possible. You just have to have the courage to try.

“What if I fail?” “Oh darling, but what if you fly?”

Still not sure how to go about taking risks because some part of you is holding you back? Talking to someone can really help you to handle whatever life throws at you. It’s a great way to get your thoughts and your worries out of your head so you can work through them.

Speak to a therapist about it. Why? Because they are trained to help people in situations like yours. They can help you to identify and understand the things that hold you back so that you can become more comfortable taking a risk now and then.

BetterHelp.com is a website where you can connect with a therapist via phone, video, or instant message.

While you may try to work through this yourself, it may be a bigger issue than self-help can address. And if it is affecting your mental well-being, relationships, or life in general, it is a significant thing that needs to be resolved.

Too many people who are afraid of risk try to muddle through and do their best to overcome it, but they often never really get to grips with. If it’s at all possible in your circumstances, therapy is 100% the best way forward.

Here’s that link again if you’d like to learn more about the service BetterHelp.com provide and the process of getting started.

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About The Author

Finn Robinson has spent the past few decades travelling the globe and honing his skills in bodywork, holistic health, and environmental stewardship. In his role as a personal trainer and fitness coach, he’s acted as an informal counselor to clients and friends alike, drawing upon his own life experience as well as his studies in both Eastern and Western philosophies. For him, every day is an opportunity to be of service to others in the hope of sowing seeds for a better world.

Why Do People Take Risks?

Nick Sednew was working as a trumpet player aboard a cruise ship two years ago when it steered into a powerful storm between Antarctica and the southern tip of South America. The ship's captain told everyone to stay inside, and warning signs blocked the doors to the decks.

Sednew did not heed the warnings.

"I really like storms, and when else are you going to be in Antarctica? I wanted to witness it, so I went out past the signs," Sednew, 26, recently recounted.

The forces of nature were stronger than he expected. As the wind pushed against him, Sednew started running to get back inside, but the deck was slick with rain. He fell. "I broke my nose and cut my lip and there was blood everywhere," he said. Clinging to the railings to prevent being blown overboard, he clambered back to the door.

Many people feel the same urge Sednew felt: the desire to venture past the limits of safety in pursuit of a rewarding experience. Sednew was lucky to make it back alive: Sometimes risky desires can be deadly, as exemplified by the frequency of fatal sky-diving and mountain-climbing accidents. Indeed, excessive risk-taking significantly lowers one's life expectancy . So why has the urge evolved? And what explains the differences in what each of us is willing to wager?

As with most aspects of our behavior, the answer is buried deep in our evolutionary past.

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There are exceptions, of course, but generally speaking, men tend to take more risks than women do. "Especially with recreational risks and financial risks, you'll find this," said Andreas Wilke, an evolutionary psychologist at Clarkson University and an expert on risk-taking and decision-making. He says the gender divide points to the underlying reason for risk-taking.

"Besides societal and cultural reasons, there is also a biological underpinning that in part drives the sex difference," Wilke said. Men have more intra-sexual competition than women do for sex, and so they must advertise their sexual fitness through daring exploits more overtly. "Women are choosier in this context and so are predicted to be more risk-averse," he said.

While women tend to behave responsibly and make staid decisions, the burden is on men to impress them through acts of boldness and strength. "If you compare the behavior of a single adolescent male with his behavior when women are watching, you can see how the risk increases. In a competitive situation with his buddies, his risk increases substantially," Wilke said.

Of course, women take risks, too. Research shows they take more social risks than men; for example, they're more likely to change careers late in life or express unpopular opinions in business meetings. But they also take recreational risks . After all, women, just like men, must strive to impress.

Though people do become less risk-seeking as they age and as they enter into stable relationships, Wilke said men's testosterone level can shoot up again upon getting a divorce, and they again become more risk-prone. "Relationship status makes a surprisingly powerful predictor," he said.

But why do people (men and women) make certain risks but not others? Why is someone who doesn't think twice about bungee jumping unwilling to bet big in blackjack? Though people's risk behavior is complicated, psychologists actually have a simple theory to explain it.

Domains of daring

According to Wilke, risk-taking can lead to extraordinary success or extraordinary failure, and is thus an important aspect of the human condition, but for a long time, scientists struggled to define the behavior. "Risk is very widely different in terms of what kinds of risks people are willing to take and the subjective reasons for why they take risks," he told Life's Little Mysteries.

Rather than being generally risk-seeking or risk-avoiding, people are a complicated blend, he explained. "A person might be risk-seeking in a recreational risk way. But that person may be risk-averse in financial situations. They would do bungee jumping but wouldn't invest in the stock market ." Likewise, a financially reckless person who is willing to wager everything in a game of blackjack might never attempt a controversial joke in a conversation with strangers.

A Columbia University psychologist, Elke Weber, was the first to account for this subjectivity, with a model called "domain-specific risk propensity." It holds that everyone has a unique risk propensity in each of five categories: financial, health/safety, recreational, ethical and social.

At a given time in a person's life (depending on relationship status), his or her risk propensity in each category is inherent and unshakable. "People have inherent risk thresholds. When air bags were put in cars, for example, deaths did decrease, but not as much as they were predicted to. That's because people started to drive a little faster " thus keeping their overall safety risk level the same, Wilke said.

Weber and others have found that a person's risk propensity in one category says little about his or her propensity in another. But people still follow a predictable pattern. It turns out that, within a certain domain, a person's tendency to take risks correlates with how much he or she expects to benefit from the outcome. For example, in the safety risk category, Sednew likely placed a very high value on experiencing an Antarctic storm. Other people couldn't care less about having such an experience.

Consequently, studies show that Sednew was likely to perceive the risk of going outside during the storm as being much lower than other people would. According to Wilke, when people are optimistic about the outcome of their behavior, "they actually perceive it as not being risky. They might think, 'Well, I'm young these barriers apply to other people.'" [ Is Optimism Good for You? ]

And indeed, that's what was going through Sednew's mind: "I kind of felt like, 'Yeah, I get why this rule is here, but it doesn't apply to me because I'm special or smarter than someone who would go out and hurt themselves,'" he said. "The rule is there, but you don't think it applies to you because you're in control."

• 10 Weird Things Humans Do Every Day, and Why
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Follow Natalie Wolchover on Twitter @ nattyover . Follow Life's Little Mysteries on Twitter @ llmysteries , then join us on Facebook .

Natalie Wolchover was a staff writer for Live Science from 2010 to 2012 and is currently a senior physics writer and editor for Quanta Magazine. She holds a bachelor's degree in physics from Tufts University and has studied physics at the University of California, Berkeley. Along with the staff of Quanta, Wolchover won the 2022 Pulitzer Prize for explanatory writing for her work on the building of the James Webb Space Telescope. Her work has also appeared in the The Best American Science and Nature Writing and The Best Writing on Mathematics, Nature, The New Yorker and Popular Science. She was the 2016 winner of the  Evert Clark/Seth Payne Award, an annual prize for young science journalists, as well as the winner of the 2017 Science Communication Award for the American Institute of Physics. 

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Home / Essay Samples / Life / Risk Taking / Take The Risk Or Lose The Chance: The Road To A Bright Life

Take The Risk Or Lose The Chance: The Road To A Bright Life

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