Kathy Sierra of "Creating passionate users" wrote a wonderful blog entry concerning risk aversion. One line that really made me say hmmm was "if you're not doing something that someone hates, it's probably mediocre." Here is a taste of her blog entry:Memo to Microsoft: you've got people doing some amazing things over there. If you could just get the hell out of the way, the world might change for the better.
Risk-aversion is the single biggest innovation killer, and of course it's not just Microsoft that's been infected. Taking risks is... risky. But if not taking risks is even riskier, then why wouldn't you?
Sure the big companies have it bad and may fall the hardest if they don't get a clue and a cure, but none of us is immune. You see the safe path everywhere. Today at lunch I had one of those conversations with a co-author about the cover of the next Head First book, and there I was suggesting a "safer" cover model than the one he wanted (complete with all the logical reasons why people could complain about his choice). I still can't believe the words that were coming out of my mouth.
Blogging has not made this easier... if anything, the idea that a gazillion bloggers and commenters (or even ONE loud one) will seize any opportunity to find fault with your ideas and attempts can dampen one's willingness to be brave. So here's my quarterly reminder to all (me included) that if you're not doing something that someone hates, it's probably mediocre. (read the entire article)
So what risky thing have you done lately that someone might possibly hate? Or are you Ok with just being mediocre?
Regards,
Chief Show Officer
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Tags Kathy Sierra, Risk Aversion
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