Tired of Playing it Safe? Here’s How Introverts Can Teach Themselves to Be Risk Takers
Some people feel comfortable taking risks. Maybe they Bitcoined their savings, quit their job or moved to another country, and they made those decisions even though the outcome was uncertain. Some of those risk takers may even have been introverts. But for most of us who sit comfortably on the introverted side of the personality spectrum, the idea of taking the plunge without knowing the result fills us with dread — though logically we know that risks can often lead to great rewards.
So, how can Introverts develop risk-taking skills without completely going against their natural tendencies? Let's take a look.
What is Risk Taking?
Risk-taking is the act of taking chances or making decisions when the outcome is uncertain, with the potential for both positive and negative consequences.
It naturally involves uncertainty, which can be unsettling for those who prefer to think before they act. Not all Introverts fall into that category — ISFPs and ISTPs are “I'm gonna risk it,” impulsive types, for example. But most Introverts feel comfortable knowing what's around the corner.
Risk-taking isn't inherently good or bad — it all depends on the context and the potential outcomes. Negative risk taking is often reckless. People who engage in this kind of risk-taking are often adrenaline junkies who thrive on danger and excitement. In extremes, risky behavior such as misusing alcohol, taking drugs, drunk driving or engaging in unprotected sex increases the risk of injuries or run-ins with the law.
Positive risk taking involves learning new things and striving for outcomes that will help you succeed, like finding a new job or travelling solo. While taking positive risks still involves uncertainty, the risk is positive because you can develop as a person and acquire new skills, even if you fail.
Why Are Some People Afraid to Take Risks?
In a study by Kaspersky Lab, 35% of respondents thought they would be further up the career ladder if they had taken more risks in the workplace. Some of the reasons that stopped them from doing so included fear of failure, fear of the unknown, worries about losing control, or fear of the consequences. Some people were even afraid of the success they might achieve if they took the risk, a psychological phenomenon known as the Jonah Complex.
Other studies show that the brain tends to remember negative events more clearly than positive ones. This means that past failures and embarrassments can be magnified in our minds, so you’ll remember how they made you feel. This signals the decision-making center of your brain to choose safer options next time.
Over time, your brain will learn to avoid risks to prevent negative experiences in the future.
How Does Your Personality Affect Your Risk Attitude?
People who enjoy taking risks tend to be extraverted. ISFJs and ISTJs tend to be the most risk-averse personality types, but virtually all Introverts cluster in the bottom half of the results.
Hopping over to the Big Five system, people who score higher in Conscientiousness and Neuroticism, but lower in Openness, are less likely to take risks. This makes sense. Conscientious people are orderly and controlled, probably not the kind of person to rush into something without thinking. Those who score lower in Openness may be less open-minded to new experiences and therefore less likely to take risks. And studies also show that people with anxiety, a component of Neuroticism, are more risk averse than others. Anxiety is a fear of potential danger. It's not surprising that anxious people don't tolerate uncertainty very well, because they see it as a threat.
Why Bother With Taking Risks?
The comfort zone is a nice place to be because it feels safe and predictable. There is nothing wrong with staying there as long as you're happy where you are. But are you happy? Most people can identify at least a few areas in their lives where they'd like to be more successful. How do you get there? By taking risks.
Taking chances can provide many benefits and opportunities. While risk taking can feel frightening, the rewards include:
● Building confidence
● Developing new skills
● Learning to take responsibility
● Learning from your mistakes
● Creating satisfaction in succeeding
● Building self-esteem
● Creating financial freedom
● Building resilience
● Developing a sense of purpose
● Coping with failure
● Improved emotional wellness, a facet of emotional intelligence
How Introverts Can Become Risk Takers
When weighing up whether to take a risk, most of us base the decision on emotion. We assume the more anxious we feel, the greater the risk. But choosing the right path should be a conscious decision based on facts, not fear.
Successful risk takers carefully evaluate the dangers in their decision-making process and take practical steps to avoid significant losses. They gather all the facts and take time for reflection and introspection. In other words, they act like Introverts!
Here are a few more strategies for Introverts who want to take risks:
1. Trust yourself
According to counselor and anxiety expert Sheryl Paul, many symptoms of anxiety and negative intrusive thoughts are based on lack of self-trust. If you feel anxious, for example, you might value others’ opinions more than your own, have difficulty making decisions, doubt your own choices or question whether you even deserve a better outcome. To get out of this trap, you have to define your self worth. Taking risks means you have faith that you can cope with the outcome, whatever it is, and keep going.
2. Focus on facts
Think about what you want to achieve and how much risk you’re really facing. Perhaps you want to travel to a new country, but you’re afraid of going solo. Ask yourself if you think the risk is worth the effort. It might help to list the pros and cons and consider how taking the risk compares to doing nothing.
3. Build experience
Make a list of the times when you have taken a risk and achieved a positive outcome. Write it down, even if it was something small, like striking up a conversation with a stranger or asking for help at work. Even if they say ‘no,’ it will be okay because you’ll have proof that taking risks won't always lead to disastrous consequences.
4. Take sensible steps
You can reduce the amount of risk you face by working towards your goals rather than jumping in head first. For example, practising beforehand minimises the risk of making mistakes when giving a speech. Similarly, you can wait until your start-up business makes a profit before quitting your day job. If you have a backup plan to secure your career and finances and build your confidence before you start, you’ll feel less worried about taking a risk.
5. Deal with anxiety
Since anxiety is a type of fear, overcoming fearful feelings can help to make you more comfortable with uncertain results. When treated with cognitive behavioral therapy, for example, a study showed that people with anxiety tended to take more risks. Consult a therapist, and they can help you identify the root cause of your anxiety and teach you practical strategies to manage it.
6. Embrace your emotions
Our feelings can help guide us away from danger and towards safer ground, but that doesn’t mean they have to run your life. If you’re anxious about taking a chance, talk to someone you trust or write about your emotions in a journal. Sometimes, feelings just need to be expressed. There’s nothing wrong with feeling afraid or anxious. Everyone who takes risks feels fear. The key is not to let it stop you from taking action.
Final Thoughts
Taking risks can be a nerve-wracking, unsettling experience for anyone. Introverts often want the reassurance of a sure outcome because they don’t trust themselves to cope if things go wrong — but you can cope. Use your introverted strengths to consider the pros and cons of your choices, and reflect on your actions. Avoiding risks can harm your health, happiness and wellbeing more than taking the plunge, and honestly? You deserve better than that. Just do it. You’re going to be okay.
