Risks are the essence of life. At first they are our instinct. Risks are the essence of life. At first they are our instinct. We learn to crawl despite the bruises on our knees and elbows. Let's learn to walk despite the many falls we endure. But as we grow older and become more aware of the world around us, somewhere along the way we face failure. At that point we begin to fear the pain of failure and try to eliminate most risks from our lives. However, where would we be without our sense of exploration, our willingness to try new things despite the pitfalls that lie ahead? The saying goes, “No pain, no gain.” This attitude is characteristic of all the great thinkers and innovators of our society. It's easier said than done. I am also among the people who hesitate to take risks willingly. I usually stay in my comfort zone where I feel comfortable and comfortable. However I am constantly urged to step out of my comfort zone when I have taken Earlham's seminar "Who Dunnit?" In the first assigned book, The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Covey taught us how to be proactive by changing the way we see problems. Changing our perspective for me means taking a big risk. It's not easy to change our view of others in an instant. However, when I began to follow his instructions by seeing from different points of view, I began to “see” more than I ever could. I come to see what other people's points of view and desires are. When I see the weaknesses of others, I begin to see them with compassion, not with judgment or accusations. I'm starting to understand that the problem isn't what they're doing or should be doing. The problem is how I respond to the situation and what I should do. Paradigm shift taught… middle of paper… intake is often discouraged due to its unpredictability. Contrary to popular belief, not all risk taking is bad. The need for security is one of the things that prevents us from taking risks. We have a need, as human beings, to want to stick to what is familiar and predictable. We like things we can control and know well. But, as Hellen Keller said: "Safety is above all a superstition. It does not exist in nature, nor do the children of men experience it. Long-term avoidance of danger is no safer than open exposure. Life is either a daring adventure or nothing." I agree with Hellen on this issue. We must take risks to open up more avenues for opportunities in life. We cannot hide in the shadow of illusory security and let life's opportunities pass us by. I believe that risks, if taken wisely, are the best door to access the best opportunities available in your life.