We view playing it safe from diverse perspectives often based upon the prevailing circumstances and the situation. It can be seen to be positive, and at times negative too.
Some situations may require us to be conservative in our approach to ensure that we do not disrupt or negatively impact a well-trodden path that we have pursued over time. Nevertheless, a new course may get us a positive result even though it may not appear optimal at the outset. No certainty, yet we play it safe.
Similarly, if we play it safe when designing new products and solutions, we may obtain a favorable outcome, yet it is not likely to produce stellar results. Thus, it is the safe option, however not the one that will likely gain profound effects. Why do we do it, it is safe, assured, and less likely to evoke negative views. Yet, safe does not always generate big results.
There are times when playing it safe is the best outcome there is and one we do control. Right now, that may be the case when there is an alarming surge in the spread of the coronavirus in most countries with the delta variant. However, there are times that the odds do favorably make a whole of sense, and doing what we know as fact versus beliefs, is a safe solid place to start.