Risky Quote by Howard Marks
““It's worth noting that the assumption that something can't happen has the potential to make it happen, since people who believe it can't happen will engage in risky behaviour, and thus alter the environment.””
About This Quote
Source Interview: Investment Insights, Howard Marks, date unknown
Believing something cannot happen can paradoxically cause it to happen because people take risky actions, altering the environment.
In simple terms: Assumptions of impossibility can trigger risky behavior that creates the outcome.
Key Takeaway
Challenge limiting beliefs; consider how expectations shape risk.
Themes
psychology
risk management
behavioral finance
expectations
self‑fulfilling prophecy
Mood
thoughtful
cautious
Type
philosophical
advisory
When to use this quote
- investment strategy
- decision making
- risk mitigation
- scenario planning
Key Concepts
cognitive bias
probability assessment
risk perception
Questions to Reflect On
- Do you ever assume something impossible and then act riskily?
- How can you test assumptions before acting?
A Different Perspective
Overconfidence or denial may also lead to reckless behavior regardless of belief.
