@Fairbro @MMc Hmm... I can't necessarily agree with all of that logic. Nevertheless, I have had the best luck with it of all the people I have known.
Heed warnings. Prepare accordingly. Be smart, and you don't have to be scared, and don't let anybody talk you into tackling an obstacle you're not ready for - if you're not up to it, don't tackle it. Overconfidence and/or peer pressure decisions rarely end well.
Always go prepared for the worst, but beware that overpacking can result in overloading.
Now, with all that said... go out and have fun! There are ways to take on unfamiliar challenges and new experiences that aren't dangerous. As with all other activities, enjoy responsibly!
P. S. I'm the only one who caught air time on my last major outing, and I'm one of the two who left without broken parts.