iRisk

Outline
Draft 13/7/11

Ever been tempted to do something but decided it was too risky? Ever done something then afterwards said that you’d never do it again because you hadn’t realised how risky it really was? Ever done something that ended in disaster because you hadn’t even thought about the risk factor?

The reality is that almost everything we do has some element of risk attached. Living life to the full requires an understanding of what risk is, how we calculate the level of its impact, and whether we decide to act despite the risks involved.

Inherent risk
There are some actions that by their very nature have a high probability of resulting in dangerous, even perilous outcomes. If we were to rationally assess these actions, we probably wouldn’t go down that path, but under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or peer group pressure, we act without calculating the risk and end up potentially jeopardising our lives or the lives of others. 

Intelligent risk
Is there really such a thing as intelligent risk? Thinking through a course of action, calculating all the negative things that could happen, then balancing that against possible good outcomes, may allow us to push ourselves out of bad friendship groups, unfulfilling jobs or poor grades. While we could be risking ridicule, immediate financial penalty or alienation from peers, it could ultimately lead to a better outcome. 

Indispensible risk
It is not possible to grow and develop without taking some risk. It even seems that we are all hard wired to take risks: to take our first step, to try something new, to push our boundaries, to reach new heights. The trick is to understand that taking some risks leads some to development and others to disaster. 

Irresponsible risk
Taking foolhardy action without any thought for the risk involved, shows lack of judgment. Texting while driving, sexual irresponsibility, hazardous planking and inappropriate friendships can all be high risk. Whilst resulting in short term gain, the long term impacts can be devastating. 

Intended risk
There are times when jeopardising our own safety in order to help others may result in an act of great courage. Understanding the personal risks involved but acting anyway, can show true bravery and selflessness.

All actions have outcomes. Actions that are not deliberate, or not thought through, can put us at risk of consequences that are out of our control. Having an understanding that life is full of risk: that there are risks that need to be taken, and risks that should be avoided, helps us to navigate through life, to live deliberately, joyously and to the full.