Smart Risks to Grow Your Business

I recently saw a documentary about Joan Rivers. Obviously, she was quite the comedienne but what surprised me was how astute a businesswoman she was.

She talked about risk.

One line that stood out was, "You need to stand out in the rain in order to get hit by lightening."

There's nothing safe about running your own business yet so many entrepreneurs tend to look for a safety net. You want to follow other people's lead and do what they're doing. You are careful to say what you think will make someone like you and not say things that will get people angry at you. You stay within your carefully constructed limits that dictate exactly how far you will go.

The truth is that when you own your own business you must take risks. Staying safe keeps you safe. You may do fine staying safe but real success lies at the extremes. You must take risks and do things that others aren't doing and say things that isn't being said elsewhere in order to achieve big success.

You have to risk it and be out there. You have to get uncomfortable.

One more thing happens when you stand out in the rain. You tend to be alone. Most people run for cover. As you step out from under the shelter people notice you. You stand apart. It's a risk, but one that you are prepared for. You're no longer just one of the crowd.

So go ahead and put away your umbrella and enjoy your walk in the rain.

Where can you take more risks in your business?