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Happiness is, in all likelihood, a goal of yours. It may be something you seek in your work, relationships, and everyday life. And what if the way to get there isn’t through comfort but through courage?
Taking risks and doing new things may seem intimidating at first, but it doesn't have to be. It can feel exciting and empowering. In fact, according to Harvard University professor Arthur Brooks, lasting happiness and success often stem from the courage to take calculated risks, CNBC reports.
Mind Over Matter in Risk-Taking
So what is Brooks’ unique approach to happiness and taking risks? He believes in treating your life the way an entrepreneur creates an exciting new startup.
Starting a new business is risky, and you need an incredible amount of courage and confidence to do it. And the truth of the matter is that failing is a real possibility. But so is succeeding, and staying strong and believing in yourself can ultimately bring you not only financial success but joy and satisfaction too. If you want to reap the rewards, you must take the risk.
Similarly, the Daily Mail explains that there is no need to feel like it is “too late” to accomplish something. If you want something, be it with your career, your family, or other life choices, you should work to make it happen, which involves taking chances. Things won’t just happen for you if you sit around and wait. Go for it! Embrace the risk!
Creating a Braver, Happier Life
When you lean into bravery, the world becomes full of possibilities. Risk can feel less intimidating and dangerous, and more about experiencing new things and positive surprises.
The Atlantic recommends thinking about something specific that you want to do or accomplish that would take real bravery. It can be something physical like going bungee jumping or something emotional like telling someone how you really feel. They explain that if it sounds both possible and terrifying, you have found the right thing. Next, you have to envision doing “the brave thing” and make a realistic plan for it. Once you've followed those steps, you are ready.
So go ahead and take the steps you need to do what you've been considering. It might be something small or a goal you've been thinking about for a long time. But by choosing it and embracing courage and bravery, you’ve done the first step.
Happiness doesn’t always come from knowing what will be. It can happen through the ups and downs and twists and turns in life. And it may come from daring to take the risk and discovering something yourself.
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