Stress and risk – the secret of happiness

Luke Johnson hits the nail on the head with this business and social observations!

By Luke Johnson

Published: November 10 2009 22:38 | Last updated: November 10 2009 22:38

http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/188082a6-ce2b-11de-a1ea-00144feabdc0.html

" There is no stereotypical personality, but one can identify characteristics that most entrepreneurs share. At heart they are highly competitive. They do not seek security as their main goal – rather, they actively seek risk, and enjoy overcoming stressful challenges. They are not sheer gamblers, but they embrace dynamism and are willing to invest in spite of the possibility of failure – to have the chance to win. "

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"Happiness is about independence and freedom, and vital engagement with one’s craft in a productive way. I have faith in humanity, and applaud those who attempt to improve their lot. For millions, this involves something of a heroic daily struggle. Inevitably, that is unlikely to lead to a peaceful existence.

But why should we meekly accept drudgery and disadvantage? As Teddy Roosevelt, the former US president, said: “Far better it is to dare mighty things, to win glorious triumphs, even though chequered by failure, than to rank with those poor spirits who neither enjoy much nor suffer much, because they live in a grey twilight that knows not victory nor defeat.” "