Embracing Risk: Your Competitive Edge in Business and Life

Hey there, Kirk Miller here. As the founder of ‘Built To Last’ High Performance Coaching, I’ve spent years helping business leaders and high achievers reach their full potential. Today, I want to talk about something that’s been on my mind lately: the power of embracing risk and how it can give you a competitive edge in both your personal and professional life.

The Illusion of Safety: Why Playing It Safe Holds You Back

Let’s kick things off with a hard truth: waiting for the perfect time is nonsense. I’ve coached countless entrepreneurs and high achievers, and I can tell you that there’s never a perfect time to start anything meaningful. Whether it’s launching a business, setting fitness goals, or working on your personal development, the idea of “perfect timing” is often just an excuse for strategic inaction.

Think about it. Did you start your business when everything was perfect? Of course not! Life is full of curveballs, and success comes from learning to navigate them, not waiting for them to disappear.

Risk as Your Winning Edge: Competitive Edge Examples

Now, let’s talk about using risk as your competitive edge. I’ve noticed that the most successful people – those ultra high net worth individuals and strong leaders – are the ones who embrace risk, especially during volatile times.

Here are some competitive edge examples:

1. Expanding your business during an economic downturn
2. Investing in personal development when others are cutting back
3. Setting ambitious fitness goals when you’re busiest at work

Remember, we can’t grow without challenge. Every time you step out of your comfort zone, you’re building resilience and adaptability – key traits of high achievers.

Building Confidence and Self-Worth Through Risk-Taking

Let’s get real for a moment. Playing it safe might feel comfortable, but it can seriously hurt your identity and chip away at your self-worth. On the flip side, embracing risk is one of the best confidence-building exercises out there.

Here are some self-worth activities and exercises to help you build confidence at work and in your personal life:

1. Set and achieve SMART fitness goals
2. Take on a challenging project at work
3. Learn a new skill outside your comfort zone
4. Practice public speaking (yes, it’s scary, but it’s worth it!)
5. Mentor someone else (teaching is a great way to boost your own confidence)

Remember, your habits shape your identity. By consistently taking small risks and pushing your boundaries, you’re reinforcing a positive self-image and building the confidence to tackle bigger challenges.

Taking Imperfect Action: The Path to Financial Freedom and Body Goals

Now, let’s talk about one of the biggest obstacles to success: the belief that we need to have everything figured out before we start. This mindset often leads to procrastination and missed opportunities. Instead, focus on taking imperfect action – small steps that build momentum and lead to big changes.

Whether your goal is to trade your way to financial freedom, reach your body goals, or advance in your career, the key is to start now, even if conditions aren’t perfect. Here are some strategies to overcome procrastination and fear:

1. Break large goals into smaller, manageable tasks
2. Set S.M.A.R.T fitness goals or business objectives
3. Celebrate small wins along the way
4. Surround yourself with supportive people
5. Practice positive risk-taking in low-stakes situations

Remember, every high achiever started somewhere. They didn’t wait for perfect conditions; they created opportunities through action.

Thriving in Chaos: Habits of Successful People

In my work with high net worth individuals and successful entrepreneurs, I’ve noticed that they thrive in chaos. When the world gets turbulent, they step up, work harder, and ensure their confidence – both internally and externally – is at its peak.

Some habits of successful people include:

1. Embracing discomfort and stepping out of their comfort zone
2. Continuously learning and adapting
3. Taking calculated risks
4. Building and maintaining strong business relationships
5. Prioritising personal and professional development

As the saying goes, “Life begins at the end of your comfort zone.” By consistently pushing your boundaries and taking positive risks, you’re setting yourself up for big wins and significant growth.

Conclusion: Your Competitive Edge Awaits

So, here’s my challenge to you: Where are you playing it too safe right now? Is it in your relationships, your career, or your health and fitness journey? Identify these areas and challenge yourself to take one small step towards embracing risk.

Remember, chaos doesn’t last, but strong leaders do. By developing an anti-safety mindset and leveraging the competitive edge of risk, you’re positioning yourself for success in all areas of life. Trust in your ability to adapt, learn, and grow. Your next big win might be just outside your comfort zone.

Are you ready to embrace risk and unlock your full potential? The choice is yours. Take that first step today, and let’s build something that lasts.

Remember, in the ‘Built To Last’ programme, we’re all about creating lasting change for business leaders and high performers. If you’re ready to step up and embrace risk for a competitive edge, we’re here to support you every step of the way. Let’s thrive together!

Check out this video on “Anti-Safety: The Competitive Edge of Risk”