I married into the best family! My husband tells me the story about how his mom would always casually say, "Be careful, honey," as he walked out the door as a teenager / young adult. This was their household modus operandi. Every now and then, however, her quip changed, and she would shock him with, "Take a risk, honey" instead. This change provided a ying to their daily yang relationship. She still says that same thing to me from time to time and encourages her grandchildren, students, and in my case, in-laws, to face fear head on.
So in the philosophy of a woman who has lived her life fearlessly and still maintained one of the biggest social circles I've seen (she has a social calendar that would make your head spin!), the new year is a great time to suggest this might be a useful philosophy for most of us -- but especially for those of you in the creative fields.
Be wise and vigilant most of the time. But dare every day to do something risky . . . dare to take a chance and try your luck . . . dare to live outside of the safe zone as a talent. Make bold choices when it comes to your career; they can still be respectful and tactful, of course (you want to maintain those friends and have an overflowing social circle, too). Next time you're in an audition and start to second guess yourself, remind that inner voice that 2013 is going to be a year of risk and tremendous growth! Then let go of your fears, worries, and concerns, and just trust your gut. Make the choice that is daring because that will almost always be the most interesting!
Be careful most of the day, but be sure to take a risk!

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