Pushing the limits in connection with the risk matrix

1. How Far Do You Push Your Limits?
 Success cannot be achieved without some risk taking.
 There is always a possibility that things do not work out as
expected.
 In most cases we do not know until we try.
 Failing attempts should be seen as a learning curve,
improving our chances to hit the target in the next round.
 Some losses have to be taken into account in the journey to
success. The more we want to achieve in a specific
timeframe the higher the risk usually, especially when the
experience is new as the case for a quantum leap.
 Risk is a relative issue: The more we learn the less the risk
1

2. RISK IMPACT
MATRIX Minor Moderate Major
Very Likely Medium High Extreme
Risk Risk
Risk
3
LIKELIHOOD
2 4
High Zone of
Low Medium
Likely Risk Acceptable
Risk Risk Risk
3
1 2
Low Low Medium
Unlikely Risk Risk Risk
1 1 2
Comfort
Zone
2

3. Dr. Stephen Sweid is a business consultant, researcher and trainer with over 20 years consulting experience on the international scene: Europe, USA, Middle Eas
The Risk Matrix
 The “Low Risk” squares # (1) imply the comfort zone,
i.e. little effort and little achievement. Better stay away
from this zone!
 The “High Risk” squares # (3) and the “Extreme Risk”
square # (4) can cause a lot of damage and loss, despite
the great prospects, hence this area ought to be
avoided until there is more experience and confidence.
 The “Medium Risk” Squares # (2) represent the
acceptable zone for achievement, although we should
strive to push our limits constantly to higher levels.
3

4. About the Author
 Dr. Stephen Sweid is a business consultant, researcher and
trainer with over 20 years consulting experience on the
international scene: Europe, USA, Middle East and Far East.
He has involved as expert in technical assistance projects of
international organizations, such as UNDP, UNIDO, World
Bank, European Commission etc, as well as in consulting
projects commissioned by multinationals. He is member of
a number of international professional research and
consulting societies. He is currently active in the UK, UAE,
and other locations. His consultancy focuses on strategic
issues, business development, Innovation and Marketing.
Email: sweidsm@gmail.com web: http://www.cinnosys.com
4