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Some evidence suggests a genetic predisposition to risk-taking. Notwithstanding that, and philosophical determinists from Kant to Sam Harris, I like to think we retain a measure of free will. With that as an assumption, here’s a self-assessment inventory that could help you decide whether you want to direct your free will in a new direction. For each of these 13 items, mark where you’d fall on the continuum.
Work
Tell your boss s/he’s wrong.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Suggest a major new direction for your work group.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Quit a bad job even though you haven’t landed a new one.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Start a business.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Relationships
Admit a serious liability about yourself on the first or second date.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Ask someone to marry or live with you when it’s only 50/50 s/he’d say yes.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Break up with a so-so romantic partner.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Money
Buy a house when you can barely afford its mortgage and expenses.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Put all your long-term savings in stocks or an all-stock mutual fund.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Lend a significant chunk of money to a friend.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Recreation
Go on a weekend backpacking trip where there isn’t cell phone coverage.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Have unprotected sex with someone you weren’t sure was safe.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Accept the risks of using tobacco or marijuana.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
Try LSD.
Wouldn’t <--------------------------------------------> Would
The takeaway
Now review your answers. In general, or with regard to one or more of the items, do you want to be bolder or more cautious?
I read this aloud on YouTube.
The previous posts in this series are Should You Be More Adventurous or Less? and Should You Be More Suspicious or Less?
