The Narratives – Mohamed Miah

What’s the biggest risk you’d like to take — but haven’t been able to?

Taking risks is part of life—some we take on instinct, others after careful thought. And then there are those risks we dream about but, for one reason or another, never fully commit to. When I reflect on the biggest risk I’d like to take but haven’t been able to, two things come to mind—one with a purpose closer to home and the other just for the thrill of it.

A Business Venture in Bangladesh

The first big risk I’d love to take is opening a business in Bangladesh. Not for personal gain, but to create a sustainable source of income for my extended family. In a country like Bangladesh, where economic opportunities can be limited, starting a business could be life-changing for them. But, of course, it’s a significant risk.

Running a business is challenging at the best of times, but doing so from afar, relying on family members to manage things, makes it even more daunting. There are countless factors to consider—trust, management, the local economy, and a different business landscape than what I’m used to in the UK. Not being physically present to oversee operations day-to-day adds another layer of complexity.

Yet, the potential rewards are immense. Seeing my family in Bangladesh become more self-sufficient and have steady income could provide a sense of stability that means far more than profit margins. The business wouldn’t need to make me rich—it would only need to be sustainable and reliable. But as much as I feel drawn to this idea, the finances I would need to start running a business, is what holds me back.

Perhaps one day I’ll take that leap. For now, it remains a calculated risk, something I continue to mull over.

The Thrill of Skydiving

The second risk I’d love to take is purely for the thrill—skydiving. It’s one of those bucket-list items that I’ve always wanted to tick off. The idea of free-falling through the air, the adrenaline rush, and the sense of freedom all appeal to me in a way that’s hard to describe.

But while I may be up for it, my wife isn’t having any of it! And I get it—it’s risky, and being a husband and a dad, I can see why she’d prefer I keep my feet firmly on the ground. Maybe one day, after I’ve convinced her it’s perfectly safe, I’ll be able to make the jump (literally). Until then, it remains one of those exciting risks I haven’t taken yet.

Balancing the Desire for Risk with Responsibility

Both of these risks—starting a business in Bangladesh and skydiving—are tempting for different reasons. One is rooted in providing for others and building something meaningful, while the other is a personal challenge, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone and experience something extraordinary.

But as much as I love the idea of taking these risks, I also recognise the responsibilities I have, especially towards my family. Whether it’s making sure a business venture won’t fail and let others down, or ensuring my family feels secure before I jump out of a plane, there’s a fine line to walk between risk and responsibility.

Maybe one day, I’ll be able to take those leaps. For now, they remain on the horizon—possibilities waiting to be explored.