A life lesson for me is, how do you muster the courage to take on a new risk? Whether it's starting up a business or taking on a new project or expedition. I think the risks that we take are all relative to the risk-taker.

In this quote, Ann Bancroft reflects on the challenge of mustering the courage to take on new risks, whether in the context of starting a business, embarking on a new project, or undertaking an expedition. She acknowledges that every new venture involves a certain level of uncertainty and fear, and the key to success lies in the ability to summon the courage needed to face those risks. Bancroft highlights the idea that taking risks is a critical part of growth and achievement, but it requires the inner strength to move forward despite the potential for failure or setbacks.

Bancroft’s statement also touches on the subjectivity of risk. She points out that the risks people are willing to take are relative to the individual and their own perception of what is at stake. What may seem like a major risk to one person might feel like a manageable challenge to someone else, depending on their experience, confidence, and tolerance for uncertainty. This personal perspective on risk makes it clear that there is no universal measure for what constitutes a "risky" decision—it varies from one person to the next.

The quote also reflects Bancroft's own adventurous spirit, as she is known for being the first woman to reach the North Pole and for her pioneering work in the fields of exploration and adventure. Through her experiences, Bancroft has come to understand that the risks she took were deeply personal and tied to her own goals and ambitions. She encourages others to recognize that taking on new challenges is a fundamental part of growth, and the courage to take those risks can lead to significant rewards.

Ultimately, Bancroft’s words encourage a mindset of courage and resilience when facing the unknown. They suggest that the key to overcoming fear and achieving success lies not in avoiding risk but in developing the confidence to step into uncertainty, knowing that the risks we take are uniquely defined by our own values, capabilities, and aspirations.