We cannot expect to evolve into the well-rounded, empathetic, effective, knowledgeable and over-all leaders in this world by sitting in the dim-lit room of our library reading books. No more than you can become a better quarterback by sitting in Lazy Boy chair watching a game. It’s one way of learning, but it’s not the only way.

In order for me to grow, learn and evolve into the kind of wizened force I’m on my way to becoming, I have to risk something. We all must risk something in becoming the best version of ourselves. There are no guarantees even though we all want them.

It just doesn’t work that way.

Risk because you will become a different person on the other side. Risk because your worth it. Risk because nothing is guaranteed in life, so we must seize the moment now. Risk because nothing of value ever came from “playing it safe.” Risk because deep down inside we all know we’re capable of magnificence.