The Risk

risk

There came a time when the risk to remain tight in the bud was more painful than the risk it took to blossom. – Anais Nin

I had this quote written in my journal all throughout college. I would read it, quite literally, every day. I didn’t really know what it meant but I knew someday I would find out. Since the new year, I’ve felt a sense of urgency. Not stress or anxiety but a pure desire to do things. It’s been amazing. I’ve felt energy at times when I’m working long hours. I wake up earlier and on my own when I’m excited about the projects that I’m working on (don’t worry…I can still ROCK the whole ‘sleeping in’ thing). I’m taking huge risks. And not just me. Adam too. I’m excited about what the rest of 2013 holds for us as partners. We work really well together and I feel lucky that I get to live alongside someone that pushes me daily.

But the quote…is true. It literally hurts my brain when things start to feel safe or when I’m coasting. To me, that feels riskier than starting a blogging workshop or signing on to do a huge project that’s 100% new to me. There are nights when Adam and I take time to go on a date but I just want to talk about all the ideas swimming in my head. (But then he lays on the charm and gets me to eat half a pint of Jeni’s Ice Cream while watching Despicable Me.)

So all this to say, I’m trying new things. I’m changing. I don’t even know where this blog is going but I hope you’ll stick around. Blogging, for me, has evolved. Before, it was a way to fit in, jump on the internet bandwagon and maybe even make money. At this point in my life it’s simply a way to connect with the world.

And as Cat Stevens would say, “Oh baby baby it’s a wild world.” 

A Consideration

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Comments (21)

  • We sound a lot alike, Allie. :) I’m allllll ideas, allllll the time. Safe feels boring, and new feels good. It gets me into trouble sometimes, but I’m glad for a man to do life with who gets that part of me and has grown to love it. Thankful for you and excited to see all that you do and the places you go! xo.

    • I remember reading that you’re an ideas gal :) I’ve only recently become one myself but I am also simultaneously very wrapped up in the details. It’s almost like a never ending thought. Thankfully my husband balances me out. Thankful for you too, Hayley!!!

  • THANK YOU SO MUCH for that amazing quote Allie! I’ve never heard it, but I love it. I have to admit I’m much in the same place right now. I usually like to live life where it’s safe and comfortable, but lately it just hurts my heart to be safe. If we only have this one shot, why not make the most of it, right?

    • I’m so glad I could share it with you!! It sounds like we both are in the same place. I’ll admit, it’s a good one to be in (in my opinion).

  • Thats so true Allison. It reminds me of a quote I read on another blog earlier that says
    “She took the leap and built her wings on the way down” (by Kobi Yamada)
    Sometimes all we need is a leap of faith towards the unknown, yet deeply invigorating, future.

  • We were destined to be friends.

    The energy from projects.
    The awesome hubby partners.
    The ice cream from Jeni’s.
    The Despicable Me.
    The Cat Stevens.

    Where have you been my whole life?

    • And why haven’t we hung out yet?!? Adam just said we need to get together after you chatted on Twitter. Can we make it happen?

  • Hi Allison! This is one of my all-time favorite quotes too. I used to have it hanging above my desk along with one by Helen Keller, “Life is either a daring adventure or nothing.” I’m experiencing a change and shift in my blog world and creative life too, and it feels pretty great. :) Thanks for introducing me to Adam! I just read his post about competition and creatives. Loved it.

    Happy journeying! xo

    • I love that quote too!! I’m excited for your shift and will look forward to see changes. And I’m glad you found Adam’s blog! It’s so wonderful but I’m biased too :)

  • Love this!! Ride that wave, girlfriend. Don’t be afraid to be at rest, but just for a minute! You are doing amazing things, and inspiring people like ME to do even more. We’re lucky to have you as our own little piece of inspiration in the Columbus sky. xoxo

    • Love that advice! I am already in bed typing this and it’s not even 11:30pm. That’s huge for me!! And your words really mean a lot! Thanks for that :)

  • Keep connecting to the world baby!!

  • Hi Allison!
    I’ve only been following your blog now for a few months and it’s become of one my favorites. I love your honestly and calmness. Sometimes its seems like folks are in a frantic race to “make it” and for a while there, I had the same view of blogging you noted to. Just last week I re-launched my site and it feels like a great fresh start.. and im ready to start really connecting to my brand and to each other too.

    • Aw thank you Ryan! I love your name. I’m excited to dig into your site and take a look. Thanks for commenting. I’m glad we connected!

  • ever ever evolving. rings so true! love it! and that photo… simply beautiful!

  • yes! story of my life. i’ve often been accused of being “restless.” but i don’t know how to be any other way! i like things to change and evolve all the time! stagnation is horrible! everything i’m typing needs exclamation points!

    also, you’re pretty.

  • your blog is a breath of fresh air, can’t wait to see what’s next!

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