Risk

If you have had previous investment experience, remember how you felt at the time.  It may be relevant to apply those feelings when selecting your current risk category.

If you can be a cautious investor and still achieve your goal, is there any need to take more risk?

Remember that markets can go down as well as up. The risk that you could get back less than you invest increases the shorter the time period.

No-one wants to be up all night worrying about short-term losses. Investing is for the longer term so ensure that you are happy with the level of risk you are taking on your investment.