Get All Access for $5/mo

7 Reasons Why Entrepreneurs Should Go Skydiving More Than Once Jumping out of an airplane only seems less risky than starting a business.

By Gerard Adams

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

Rick Neves | Getty Images

Skydiving and entrepreneurship may seem unrelated, but they actually have seven commonalities you may be overlooking. I think an entrepreneur should skydive more than once for one simple reason -- risk. Risk taking is an ongoing hurdle in every entrepreneur's life. I don't just mean the initial gamble of entering entrepreneurship.

As you continue on your journey, you will be confronted with a bombardment of decision making. These decisions will not always have clear-cut answers. Often, it's all up to you on how to handle a tough situation -- one you never saw coming and have never navigated before. When you're an entrepreneur, you have no alternative other than to trust your instincts and make a risky determination on a consistent basis.

You will continue to feel like you're more of a professional skydiver than a mere businessman as you continue on this entrepreneurial path. Trust me. Here's why.

1. You must learn to face your fears.

Fear is a huge reason why so many people don't take the leap of faith into entrepreneurship. Yes, the unknown is scary, and nothing is guaranteed in business, but if we can reframe our mindset from being less afraid of the unknown and more afraid of never knowing, we will begin to create a life of freedom, adventure and independence.

In skydiving, you have no alternative other than to face your fear, free falling.

Related: Are You A Decision Procrastinator? Here's How to Change That.

2. Entrepreneurs jump into business without a parachute.

Like I said, entrepreneurship depends on taking risks. Skydiving is the ultimate thrill because of the inherent risk. When you're in the plane and the door swings open, you realize how unpredictable your fall will be. Yes, you have a parachute, but when it comes to business, there is no safety net. Your only choice is to put on a brave face, look over the edge and jump!

3. Both force you to analyze whether you're living life to the fullest or not.

No one wants a life of mediocrity. We all crave leaving our mark on the world, creating lasting memories and making meaningful connections. Whether we do that through our business, impact or through our example, we all want an outstanding life. When we look back at our lives in old age, we want to have zero regrets. We should all look back and smile knowing we did it right. Ask yourself, are you living life to it's fullest or merely coasting by? Both skydiving and entrepreneurship make us feel excited about life. My advice -- hop off that plane of mediocrity.

4. Building a faithful team.

I can't emphasize the importance of building a culture and team that believes in your mission enough. Finding the right people to take that leap of faith with makes the jump that much more worth it. When you can look to your left and right and shout in exhilaration, you know you're on to some big things.

Related: The Responsibility of a True Leader Is to Be a Great Coach

5. Defying the odds.

When you're up 13,000 feet high, with clouds surrounding you and adrenaline pumping through your veins, you have this moment where you realize the incredible power of the human race. We're smart, powerful and capable of great feats. You recognize how two brothers created the first aircraft strictly through determination. You consider how meticulous skydiving instructors must be to navigate while freefalling and how engineers design a parachute safety device to ensure a safe landing. So many people defied the odds long before you decided to skydive.

Often times, entrepreneurs go into business because they see another way that hasn't been done before. Through willpower, faith and drive, you understand how all things are possible.

6. Getting comfortable with the uncomfortable.

Freefalling is unlike any other feeling in the world. It is a rush that is indescribable. When you're an entrepreneur, you will be forced to do things outside of your comfort zone, and a similar feeling will occur. You won't be comfortable in every room. You'll have adrenaline when pitching to investors. You will be unsure how to land every deal. But you have to trust the process, and get comfortable with the uncomfortable. All the growth, magic and opportunity lies right outside your of comfort zone.

Related: Want to Be Successful? Have Fun. Seriously.

7. Have fun.

Celebrate your wins. Often we get bogged down with self-criticism, doubt or failure. But what about all the wins? Be sure to celebrate all the successes along the way. Remember why you got into this game. It was a choice. Always have fun, be present, and enjoy the ride.

Are you an entrepreneur who has skydived? I'd love to hear what other similarities you found from both experiences. Snap me at hellogerard, and tell me how you think they go hand in hand.

Gerard Adams

Entrepreneur, angel investor, self-made millionaire at 24

Gerard Adams is The Millennial Mentor™, inspiring the generation to leverage their passions for success and create the lifestyle they dream of. A serial entrepreneur, angel investor, self-made millionaire by the age of 24 and millennial himself, he is most popularly known as the co-founder of Elite Daily. To date, he has built, backed or invested in nine businesses across multiple industries that have all delivered over seven-figure profits. Gerard has recently developed a video series, Leaders Create Leaders, to offer a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur. Learn more at GerardAdams.com

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Science & Technology

Use This Framework to Successfully Integrate AI Into Your Business Operations

Here's how to ensure both innovation and compliance when using AI in your organization.

Growing a Business

Why Business Owners Should Streamline Their Operations Now for Success in 2025

As the holiday season and year-end approach, business owners face heightened operational demands, from inventory management to spend control. By streamlining these processes and partnering with flexible suppliers, businesses can maintain efficiency, meet customer needs and focus on growth while navigating this busy period.

Leadership

Why Your AI Strategy Will Fail Without the Right Talent in Place

Using fractional AI experts through specialized platforms allows companies to access top talent cost-effectively, drive innovation and scale agile strategies for growth.

Business News

Here's What the CPI Report Means for Your Wallet, According to JPMorgan and EY Experts

Most experts agree that there will be another rate cut next week.

Growing a Business

5 Effective Strategies to Boost Your Business's Online Presence

Boosting your online presence in 2025 is the key to success for businesses looking to grow. Working on your branding and reputation management is important to drive more sales and improve conversion.