I’m close to finishing ‘Moonshot,’ a book detailing the American Space program of the 1960s. I’ve also begun Elon Musk’s biography and it’s striking how much he shares with the astronauts, especially their ease with risk and uncertainty. These astronauts, once test pilots, routinely pushed the envelope with prototype aircraft, often facing life-threatening situations. Similarly, Elon Musk is known for his business and financial gambles, fearlessly investing significant portions of his personal fortune in ventures that seem impossible.
Risk-taking seems to have an inherited aspect. Reflecting on my childhood, I recall peers who were natural risk-takers, causing their parents much concern. This propensity for risk seemed ingrained, not taught.
Similar to ‘the force’ in Star Wars, the Risk gene varies in strength among individuals, and with practice and training, one can maximize its potential.
Harnessing this inclination for risk can lead to remarkable achievements. It’s a trait common to many successful entrepreneurs, athletes, and explorers – a willingness to take risks and confront uncertainty.
How strong is the Risk gene in you?