Eric Moeller, my altMBA coach, asked me to reflect on what I’ve learned so far in the altMBA process. Because time is precious, I will be brief.
Here are my three keys to success in the altMBA.
Read and Re-Read
I read every project at least 10 times and take lots of notes. Why? To understand what is being asked and how the process is supposed to challenge and change me.
I paid for the opportunity to be pushed beyond my limits — real or perceived — and digging into the project description and reading materials is where I focus my time and energy.
Additionally, if I fail to understand how the project is supposed to change me, I won’t be able to ask my classmates the right questions about their own work.
Kill the Obvious
I’ve personally challenged myself to ignore obvious solutions.
altMBA was not created so I could lean on previous knowledge, experience and skills. I’m intentionally here to challenge myself with new concepts and new ways of looking at the world.
I’m searching for the unexpected answer that stretches me and is interesting to the reader. I love brainstorming the crazy, backwards and, sometimes, most obvious, simple solutions.
I don’t get a thrill out of the predictable answer.
Don’t Be Afraid
If I’ve read the project prompt, created an interesting solution to the project (by killing the obvious) and used my observations to ship my best work… I’m not afraid.
I can take the critique, questions or feedback knowing that I shipped my best work.
I can rest easy at night.
And if my work didn’t accomplish its’ intended goal, then I missed something and need to reconsider my assumptions, communication or the worldview of the audience.
It’s been a wild ride and the second half is already here. Let’s go!