“You’ll Shoot Your Eye Out!”

One of my all time favorite holiday movies is “A Christmas Story.” Set in the early 1940’s, the story circles around 9-year old Ralphie and his overwhelming desire for a Red Ryder air rifle.

His anxious mother worries that he’ll get hurt and his hopes are seemingly dashed once Christmas morning comes.  However, his father surprises the whole family by bending the rules a bit and the coveted gift ends up in Ralphie’s hands.  Throwing caution to the wind, he goes out for target practice and…well, you need to watch the movie.

I relate to Ralphie’s mom in this story.  I’m a rule follower.  I read the instructions, follow the posted traffic signs, and would never take 11 items through the “10 items or less” lane at the grocery store.  It’s something about the way I am wired.  In the words of the man in black, Johnny Cash, “I walk the line.”

I don’t necessarily think that if you follow the rules, you don’t take risks, but for me the two are closely intertwined.  Because of my sense of responsibility and order, I am not likely to jump into an untested situation (or out of an airplane).  I have people in my life who run full-tilt towards the unknown, ready to embrace whatever outcome may be.  I am much more likely to carefully consider the scenario, determine probable results, and come up with an action plan.

Being cautious or methodical isn’t a bad thing.  It keeps a lot of people out of

trouble, myself included.  But sometimes, taking a wild chance is necessary.  I need to get out of my comfort zone to learn, to grow, and sometimes get surprised by the thrill.  It’s all a matter of perspective, though.  My “risky business” may not feel like that to someone else.  And things that come to me with ease may make my neighbor break out in a cold sweat.

Ralphie, from "A Christmas Story"

I may not fly down a rip line, wrestle alligators, or battle Bad Bart, but I’ve come to realize that I do take chances.  Every time I get on stage behind a microphone to sing, I am opening myself to critique or indifference.  When I initiate a new project or idea at work, I may fall flat on my face.  When I open my heart to a new friend, they may reject or disappoint me.  I may not be in physical peril, but I do choose to be vulnerable on another level.

Are you someone who always looks before they leap?  Even if you’re not…what can you do today that might be a bit of a risk?  Can you look at a problem, a relationship, or a situation in a new, fresh way and open yourself to the unknown?  Will you close your eyes and jump?  I triple-dog dare you.

About:  Cara Beckerle is Manager, Meeting & Event Operations with Experient out of the St. Louis, MO office.  She enjoys both the logistical and creative aspects of planning events, and has a passion for helping others be successful.   Outside of work, Cara keeps busy spending time with family and friends, enjoys reading, watches a little too much TV, and sings wherever the opportunity presents itself.