Word of the Week: Risk
- The Modern Domestic Woman
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Because staying small is its own gamble.
Let’s not pretend risk is glamorous.
It’s uncomfortable. Vulnerable. Often misunderstood.
But you know what’s worse than taking a risk?
Never taking one at all.
“Risk” doesn’t have to mean chaos or recklessness. It doesn’t have to be jumping without a parachute or torching everything you’ve built.
Sometimes, risk looks like…
Finally saying no.
Starting the thing you’ve been talking about forever.
Leaving what’s no longer working (even if it’s familiar).
Choosing yourself. Out loud.
The truth is: comfort zones don’t always feel good...they just feel predictable. And predictable doesn’t always mean aligned. Sometimes the bolder move is also the most honest one.
Try This: The “Would I Regret Not Doing This?” Check
Before writing it off as “too risky,” pause and ask:
Would I regret not doing this a month from now? A year from now?If the answer is yes — that’s your sign. It’s not recklessness. It’s realignment.
A little context for your nervous system:
According to Harvard research, calculated risk-taking increases confidence over time. Not because the outcome is guaranteed, but because it strengthens your sense of agency.You build belief in yourself by watching yourself do the hard thing.
Here’s what I’ll say: Safe isn’t always peaceful. Comfort isn’t always clarity. And fear isn’t always a stop sign. Sometimes it’s just a signal you’re getting closer to something that matters.
This week, risk the version of you that’s outgrown where you’re standing.
About the Author: Carrie Summers, LCSW
Therapist • Mental Health Educator • Safe Space Creator
Carrie Summers is MDW’s trusted voice for all things mental health.
As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and the founder of Noreila Healing & Wellness in Wheaton, Illinois, Carrie brings a deep commitment to creating inclusive, judgment-free spaces where all people feel seen, supported, and safe.
Whether working one-on-one with clients or shaping mental health conversations within the MDW community, Carrie leads with warmth, insight, and advocacy.
Her therapeutic style is person-centered, strengths-based, and trauma-informed, grounded in the belief that every individual already holds the potential for healing within.
Carrie supports clients navigating a wide range of challenges, including perinatal mental health, relationship stress, divorce and separation, narcissistic abuse recovery, and major life transitions. Her work is guided by a commitment to meeting people exactly where they are.
Carrie holds a Perinatal Mental Health Certification from Postpartum Support International (PSI), allowing her to provide specialized care for individuals facing fertility struggles, postpartum mood disorders, and the often overlooked experience of hyperemesis gravidarum (HG).
She also serves clients as a certified Divorce Coach, helping people move through endings with clarity and empowerment.
“Healing happens when people feel heard. I want every person to know they matter and that there’s no shame in their story." - Carrie
Carrie offers both in-person and virtual therapy sessions through her private practice, ensuring flexibility and access for clients throughout Illinois.
Outside the therapy room, you’ll find Carrie joyfully curating her next Nordstrom haul (no apologies) and fully embracing the philosophy that treating yourself is a form of self-respect. Reach out to Carrie at (630) 474-5275 or
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