Why You Should Take a Risk Every Day with Julie Zhuo

In this episode of Work Life, host Molly Graham talks with former Facebook design leader and author Julie Zhuo about the power of everyday risk. Zhuo reframes risk not as a dramatic, one‑off gamble but as a series of small, intentional actions that stretch comfort zones. By treating risk as a craft, she shows how leaders can systematically build confidence, a skill that directly impacts decision‑making, team dynamics, and career progression. The conversation highlights why businesses should encourage risk‑taking habits to foster innovation and resilience in fast‑moving environments.

Zhuo describes a concrete framework she uses each year, starting with January rituals that set a theme for the coming months. She challenges herself with varied tasks—publicly blogging, speaking up in meetings, taking a break for family, even trying surfing—each designed to feel slightly uncomfortable. These micro‑risks function like muscle‑building exercises: the first push‑up is hard, but repetition makes the next easier. By focusing on the feeling of risk rather than the specific activity, she learns to recognize and act on discomfort, turning it into a growth signal. The practice also includes reflective journaling, which helps identify patterns and adjust the difficulty of future challenges.

The broader takeaway for professionals is that risk is a learnable skill, not an innate trait. By naming the feeling, setting intentional challenges, and reviewing outcomes, leaders can expand their capacity for bold decision‑making without jeopardizing stability. This approach aligns with modern leadership models that value psychological safety, continuous learning, and adaptive thinking. Implementing a daily risk habit—whether it’s asking for feedback, proposing a new idea, or simply pausing a schedule—can accelerate personal growth, boost team confidence, and ultimately drive better business results.