Risk
I dunno, bro. Taking risks in life is second nature to me nowadays. But it’s not like it gets easier. There are still all the emotions that come with it. Today, I wanted to write a bit about the emotional experience I go through in hopes that it might be helpful for you queerios out there who are chasing dreams and thinking about what’s next.
“Take risks: if you win, you will be happy; if you lose, you will be wise.”
— Swami Vivekananda
First, let’s talk about the dark side of looking over the edge. Damn. The built-up tension in your gut is a lot to manage some days. Even with the breathing. Your heart races, panic sets in, your chest tightens as you might lose what you once had. You might break what’s working. At the end of the day—anxiety, fear, and tension. These are a natural part of being human. We aren’t robots yet, so in the meantime, we have to learn to swim through the waves, trusting the direction that’s been guiding us all along. Do you still got me? Or will I fall?
Now let’s talk about the brighter side of risk. Damn, it really is something else to be excited in life. Inspired. Excited about the upcoming season. It feels so good to lean into the waves of opportunity, enthusiasm, and joy that come from following your heart. I think every man should have the chance to feel this. Every queer man should take a chance on themselves. Ask for what they need. Believe in your dreams.
And finally, I’m going to leave you with some tips I’ve learned along the way while you move through taking a chance on yourself.
Ebb and Flow: We’re not always jumping off cliffs. But intuition seems to always be guiding you up the next hill to climb, showing you a path forward that will almost always lead to a sacrifice to make. A challenge presented to test your heart’s true intent. I promise, if you are clear from the beginning about that intention while seeking and turning over rocks for opportunity, you’ll be much more able to make that leap when the time comes. Because it’s clear—this is what you were asking for all along.
The Little Things: Obviously, we’re annoyed by how much we hear “love yourself” and “take care of yourself,” but this is most true when you are in a tough season. You need to pay mind to the small things in your day-to-day life—like cooking a good meal for yourself, treating yourself to something special every now and then, maybe even just cleaning and organizing an old closet. These can really help ease the discomfort. Not that we have to be Buddhist monks to take risks, but some mindful attention to the present moment can go a long way. Find a new book, take a hike, and listen to your body’s direction in what it needs.
Grace: I’m one of those guys who’s always trying to understand the boundaries around me—in people, in situations. It’s like my personality is programmed to seek the edges. Follow grace in your life. This means the path of least resistance. This means it comes through people—either they show up and bring new life, or maybe a new gig, or maybe it’s just a fun time. But I promise, it’s always there and will always show up. He will always give you more grace.
I hope this was helpful for you this season. As always, if you want to connect, I’m here. Book a call, reach out anytime. Thank you for your time and support. I look forward to hearing about the next risk you’re going to take in your life.
