On my journey as a serial entrepreneur I have had to take a leap of faith, many a time, not knowing how things would shape out. I believe there is a difference between taking a decision based on incomplete information and just hoping for the best and a leap of faith. The difference is subtle on the surface, but when truly identified, shows the difference in situations quite clearly. For example in a business partnership, you could meet a potential partner at a cocktail session, and decide then and there to start a new business together, since it seems that both of you have complementary skill sets and it also feels right. I believe that is not a leap of faith, rather, it is a gamble on both parts. A leap of faith is when two would-be partners get to know each other, identify ways to work together, identify correct business opportunities and then make a decision to go forward and start something together. The difference between these two options is “knowledge”.
A counter argument could be that given that both individuals know each other well, how is that a leap of faith? The truth of the matter is that we usually know very little about each other initially. It takes time and effort to actually get to know an individual. However, the relationship changes completely when both individuals have something vested in the relationship, be it business, marriage or religion. In truth taking that initial step or commitment into the unknown, is as scary as jumping into a situation with a complete stranger.The difference however between these situations is that when we make a true leap of faith, we do it after studying and judging the situation at hand, rather than just taking a random shot.
When I started my initial business I also had an offer to go into the corporate world at that time. After analyzing the situation, I chose to venture out on my own and I am extremely happy with that choice. It was not an easy decision, even though on the surface it seemed a profitable business to go into. A leap of faith I believe represents a decision based on much more than just something done on the spur of the moment. It requires making a decision based on research,logic and a gut feel which is truly exciting. The next time someone asks you to take a leap of faith and do something, think about the situation at hand….is it really a leap of faith or just another shot in the dark.
I would really like to hear what you think about taking a leap of faith? Is it something that one just does, or does it actually require a lot of thought? Do you think too much thought restrains you from actually making that leap? Look forward to your comments and suggestions.