My college finance professor started the semester by asking us all the question, “Are you a stock or are you a bond?” It was a great way to start a conversation about finance, but it also made me evaluate the way I make decisions. A “stock” would be someone that takes great risks in hopes of greater rewards; a graph of their life would be full of peaks and valleys. A “bond” would be someone with a very linear life graph; every action would be methodical and predictable; they would always make the safe choice.
For the past four years I have thought about this question regularly. I recently made the very bond-like decision to move home to Indiana . I knew I loved it here, and I knew I would have my family network to support my decision. On the other hand, I made a career change and took a job with Anchor Point doing something I’ve never done before, with a team that I had never met before, and in an office that I had never seen before. That was a very stock-like decision.
The point is that I think taking risks is imperative to developing a fulfilled life. Not every decision should be a risk, but it is important to pepper them in here and there. I am a very bond-like gal (not like Halle Berry Bond gal, like the kind of predictable/plan-ahead gal that goes to bed at 9PM and clips coupons from the Sunday paper), but I view new obstacles as a risk worth taking to discover new opportunities. I took a risk joining the Anchor Point team and I have enjoyed getting to know my new coworkers. I feel stimulated by the challenges and tasks that lay before me. I know that taking risks can lead to failure, but it can also lead to awesome experiences and opportunities that will improve my life, and the lives of my loved ones.
As 2013 winds down and we become excited about the newness of another year, I encourage you to be a “stock” a few times in 2014. Try something new, whether it’s that sushi restaurant down the street that you’ve always been curious about, or making a career change to enhance your skillset.
I hope you all have a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy precious time with friends and family, and as you sit on the couch in a turkey coma next Thursday, take a moment to reflect on the new things you will try in 2014. You never know where they might lead you!