Taking smart risks at work

The surprising power of ‘micro-risks’

When’s the last time you took a risk at work? Not a major one — just a moment of speaking up, saying yes to a new project, or sharing an idea.

These ‘micro-risks’ can feel surprisingly big and stir up self-doubt or fear of judgement, even when they’re low-stakes on paper. That’s because our brains are wired to avoid discomfort and uncertainty. But if you work in a supportive environment — where ideas are welcomed and mistakes are treated as part of learning — stretching beyond your comfort zone can lead to huge leaps in personal and professional growth.

Smart risk-taking is good for your career

When you take responsible risks, you:

• Build confidence. Each small risk you take strengthens your self-belief.

• Open up opportunities. Saying yes to new challenges can lead to unexpected projects, promotions, or connections.

• Improve adaptability. Risk-taking helps you get comfortable with change and uncertainty.

• Build resilience. Navigating risks (and setbacks) helps you develop grit, perspective, and the ability to keep going when things don’t go to plan.

How to build your risk-taking muscle at work

• Start small. Choose one low-pressure moment each week to stretch yourself. It could be offering an idea in a meeting or putting your hand up for a task slightly outside your usual role.

• Reflect. After you take a risk, notice how it went — not just the outcome, but how you felt. Did anything surprising happen? Would you do it again?

• Look for patterns. Notice when you tend to hold back. Is it in certain meetings? Around specific people? Understanding your triggers can help you prepare for future opportunities.

• Talk to a trusted colleague. Bounce your ideas off someone else for a sense check — and to hold you accountable.

• Know your limits. Smart risk-taking isn’t about pushing through burnout or ignoring clear rules and boundaries. It’s about choosing to stretch yourself when the timing, context, and support are right.

Often, it’s the small steps that shape our confidence and careers over time. Test the waters. Talk it through. Trust your instincts. Risk-taking is a skill, and it gets easier with practice.