Not many of us enjoy taking risks. Often, we let fear stop us. Some risks are worth taking, though! They can enrich our lives and lead us toward happiness and enjoyment. Here are some risks that you should consider taking in your life.

1.  Travel Somewhere Out of Your Comfort Zone

Spending a week in an all-inclusive resort is wonderful, but does it challenge or change you? Consider taking a trip somewhere outside of your comfort zone. It will open you up to new experiences and a new perspective on life.

2.  Say "No" Even If It Scares You

It is easy to say "yes" when someone important asks us for something. However, if this request is holding you back from your goals, you need to say "no." Saying "no" is scary because you never want to disappoint someone, but most people will understand and respect your boundaries.

3.  Go For It - Start That Business

Many people dream of starting a business; few will do it. Why not be one of the few who do? Yeah, you might fail, but the lessons you learn along the way will be invaluable. Plus, if you succeed, you get to work for yourself. 

4.  Getting Turned Down

So often, we don't ask for what we want because we are afraid to get turned down. A "no" can't really hurt us, though. What hurts is not getting what we desire because we are too afraid to ask for it.

5.  Caring Deeply About Someone

It can be scary to fall truly and deeply in love. This is especially true if you were burned in the past. Finding your "soulmate" can make this journey through life so much more enjoyable. Don't pass up on that because you are scared of getting hurt.

6.  Be Your True Self

This may not seem like a "risk," but many of us act differently than we feel. We create a facade so that we can fit in. Drop the facade and act like your authentic self. If people don't like it, so be it.

7.  Be Honest In Difficult Situations

Honesty is important in our relationships, but sometimes it can be scary. Telling someone something when you aren't sure how they will react is terrifying, but you owe it to both of you to do it.

8.  Going Against The Grain

It's much easier to flow with the general consensus and societal norms. However, what if in your heart of hearts you don't believe in them? Don't be afraid to blaze your own path, even if that means doing things differently than everyone else.

9.  Letting Go

Whether it is a relationship, job, or toxic family member, sometimes we need to "let go" and move on. It can be scary because this usually means starting over in some way. While it might be painful initially, it will be worth it in the long run.

FAST-ACTION STEPS

1. Brainstorm a list of things you want to do but are afraid to take the risk. There are no wrong answers here. Get it all down.

2. Choose one risk to take and do it this week. Start with something small so you can build momentum.

Reflect on how taking that risk worked out. Was it less scary than you thought? Were the benefits worth it? What might you do differently next time?