What is Taking Leaps?
As a general concept, Taking Leaps means doing things you want to do - but might not normally do - and doing them sooner than later. It means figuring out what you have a passion for and pursuing that path -- even if it is a path that does not yet exist. It means to live life to the fullest and explore every opportunity it provides. It means: NEVER SETTLE. For each of us, that general concept is applied in a different way. It all depends on what we have done and what we normally would do.
How did TakingLeaps.com get started?
In June 2008, Greg Forbes Siegman served as American Scholar-in-Residence for a civic engagement program in South Africa. A number of experiences during the trip (like being catapaulted into the sky, pictured left) -- and the trip itself -- inspired him to explore (more) possibilities and start Taking (more) Leaps and to encourage others to do the same.
Does a Leap have to involve physical risk?
Absolutely not! Taking Leaps can be jumping out of a plane, but it doesn't have to be. Again, as it is intended here, Taking Leaps simply means stepping out of your comfort zone, trying things you wouldn't normally try, doing them with enthusiasm and a smile, and doing them as soon as you reasonably can instead of delaying them until 'some day' down the road (knowing full well that 'some day' may not ever actually come). So, a Leap can be bungee jumping or swimming with sharks, but it also can be taking a cooking class, attending a musical or taking on a role in a play (left) for the first time. It all depends on you.
Can anyone start Taking Leaps?
Absolutely! Just remember we are not responsible in any way for what you do or your safety doing it. So be smart, be safe, have the necessary permissions (a doctor, local officials, etc) and talk to the right experts to make sure you've taken any necessary precautions. And, of course, if you are a minor, talk with a parent/guardian before you take any Leaps whatsoever -- even if it's a Leap as seemingly safe as learning a musical instrument or playing checkers for the first time. If you are a minor, you should still make sure you have permission from a parent/guardian before doing it. And remember: Leaps - as they are intended here - don't have to involve literal, death-defying leaps. They can be 'feet-on-the-ground' activities like learning a musical instrument or learning a foreign language. It is just about trying new things.
Benefits to Taking Leaps?
Some fun, potentially life-changing experiences. Taking Leaps gives you a chance to explore new possibilities and learn new things. They can be an opportunity to reinvent yourself, become more outgoing, and in short, live a little. The process of Taking Leaps -- choosing the Leap, researching it, commuting to the location where you do it, and doing it -- can lead you to cross paths with incredible people, places and things who emerge along the way. Best of all, Taking Leaps can also create opportunities for you to make a difference in the lives of others. For instance, in 2008, Greg took a Leap - 'trying out' for a pro baseball team. In conjunction with his 'try out', he arranged for campers & counselors from a nearby camp for blind & visually impaired children to visit the ballpark.
What if I take a Leap and fall down?
In most cases, you get up, dust yourself off, and keep going.
Didn't Greg get badly injured in 2009?
Yes, but ironically, it was not because of any Leaps he was taking. It was simply a fluke injury that occurred while he was volunteering for a charitable foundation. If anything, the severe injury and surgery that followed only reinforced to him how important it is to explore possibilities and pursue dreams now instead of later -- because you just never know if you'll have a chance to do them later!
What Leaps has Greg taken?
Click Greg's Leaps to see some examples.
What are some Leaps I can take?
Click Your Leaps to see some examples.