In an article entitled, "Power, Optimism, and Risk-Taking," based on five separate studies involving students, Anderson and Galinsky's findings apply to powerful people.

The study points out that risky behavior can be beneficial, helping individuals maintain or even increase their power. By engaging in risky behavior, the powerful may take advantage of opportunities that others avoid. However prior success or sense of power can lead to disastrous mistakes, but until now there's been little research that establishes such a link, Anderson notes.

It is an interesting set of studies that will make you think and wonder what type of mindframe you need to be successful and how to engage risk with the right mind set.

Click here to read PhysOrg.