Taking risks is terrifying. Most of us actively avoid taking risks believing that doing nothing is a safer course of action. Well, it turns out that taking risks is the least risky thing you can do to live a fulfilling life. Things might not always turn out the way you hoped, but if you live aligned with your “why,” research suggest that you will benefit emotionally. Live your life to the fullest, follow your heart and always ask yourself “what would I regret the most?”

Alan Ying dropped out of the cardiothoracic surgery residency program at Duke University to start a software company when he was twenty-eight years old. Since selling that business, he’s enjoyed leading, investing in, and serving on the boards of start-ups to public companies. Alan grew up in Ohio and now lives in Texas. He researches risk and is co-author of The Risk Paradox: Life Lessons from 102 Amazing Risk Takers.

The video version of this interview is available on YouTube: Episode 207