You have to take risks in life, or there is no reward. That's the very definition. Those who do not stick their necks out and try something new are destined to remain in a state of apathy and will never move forward.

But as "adults" in society, we also have to figure out which risks are worth taking. Other people count on us to keep the risk tolerance in a range that allows us to continue to pay the bills, keep a roof over our heads, keep food on the table.

Finding the right balance that moves forward, without taking too many (there will be some, no one's risks pay off 100% of the time) steps backward, that's the key.

Richard Branson is a great Risk taker. But he also can afford to take these risks since he has more money than his children's children's children could ever spend. But he also has a point. Put yourself out there, take a risk, and see what happens. Or don't take any risks and never see what you could really be.