Reasonable Risk

By Adriene Russell

Posted November 13, 2024

The bridge between growth and fear

This article was originally written as a personal reflection on how we grow—professionally and personally—when we move forward despite uncertainty. In training, leadership, or life, there’s often a moment where you’re not 100% ready. You might be unsure, unqualified, or unproven.

But growth rarely comes wrapped in guarantees.

It comes when we take a reasonable risk.

What is a reasonable risk?

A reasonable risk isn’t reckless. It’s a step forward with intention — even when you’re not totally sure how things will turn out.

It’s the first big client.

The job you take without checking every single box.

The book you write before you feel like an expert.

A reasonable risk acknowledges the unknown but bets on growth, values, and purpose. It doesn’t wait for the moment when there’s zero chance of failure—because that moment usually never comes.

Growth demands courage, not perfection

We tend to believe we need more certainty before we move. But what we often need is clarity about our purpose and confidence in our ability to learn.

What would it look like if you believed the following?

• It’s okay to be new.

• It's okay to ask for help.

• It's okay to get better with time.

These aren't signs of weakness—they're signs that you're growing.

We don't become ready by avoiding risk.

We become ready by stepping in and learning through it.

Reasonable risk builds real resilience

Every time you move forward through discomfort, you gain more than just experience—you gain confidence. You prove to yourself that you can face uncertainty with integrity and intention.

That’s how people grow.

That’s how leaders are built.

That’s how trust is earned—especially with yourself.

Call to action

If you’re leading a team—or your own growth—and find yourself holding back until it’s “safe,” I invite you to consider what a reasonable risk might look like for you.

Let's explore the next bold steps in your leadership journey.