Risk as Opportunity: How Founders Should Deal with Risks
Original article: 2024-01-11. English translation. Programme details reflect the original publication date.
Introduction
As a founder, you must be able to deal with risks. This is not a matter of choice, but a necessity. Risks exist in every business, no matter how well you plan or how much experience you have.
In this article, I would like to show you how you should deal with risks in order to turn them into opportunities.
Risk as opportunity: The example of the crayfish
In my video, I told you the story of the crayfish. The crayfish that did not dare to leave its burrow never got further than the path it had already taken. But the crayfish that dared to venture out developed further and conquered new territory.
This story shows that risks can also be opportunities. If you face challenges, you will grow and develop further.
Risk management: The pilot’s checklist
Pilots know that anything that can go wrong will eventually go wrong. That is why they use checklists, which they work through before take-off. These checklists help them ensure that everything is in order and that they are prepared for any eventuality.
You should also use checklists to manage risks. This way, you can make sure you have considered everything and are prepared if something unexpected happens.
Additional tips for founders
- Be aware of the risks. Before making a decision, you should weigh up the potential risks.
- Set yourself goals. If you know what you want to achieve, you can better decide which risks you are able to take.
- Seek advice from others. Experienced entrepreneurs can help you identify and assess risks.
Conclusion
Risks are present in every business. However, you can turn them into opportunities if you face challenges and use checklists to manage risks.

