Lessons Learned in B-School Thus Far
I'm halfway done through my MBA program, which you probably saw from my earlier post. A lot of times people will ask me "what's been the most valuable or biggest thing you've learned from your MBA program thus far?" It's hard to pinpoint one thing, but I'll share with you a few really important points that I've come to realize, both personally and professionally.
No more "Shooting from the Hip" decisions
I'm really grateful that business school has taught me how to become a more informed decision maker, whether it be in a personal or professional setting. Before going to business school, I went more on "gut feeling," not necessarily considering and weighing the quantitative factors. Though there's still room for improvement, I know my analytical reasoning and quantitative skills are getting better. I guess you can say that b-school transforms you into some numbers and data driven decision maker, as most of the classes are so numbers heavy. For someone like me who is pretty far removed from numbers in my professional life, it's a pretty great skill set to learn.
Done is better than Perfect
As Sheryl Sandberg famously said her her book "Lean In," I never deeply understood what "done is better than perfect" meant until now. I had a tendency to try to make sure everything is done perfectly, but after a couple of terms, I realized that not only is it impossible, but attempting to do so will also lead you to burnout. In my case, when you're trying to do your best academically, while trying to stay healthy / workout / well put together, be a good partner / friend / daughter / employee, keep your finances going and house clean and tidy (the list goes on) -- it's going to be impossible to do everything perfectly -- and that's OK. I've learned to be comfortable with doing things at 80% but keeping everything well balanced. There's no point in trying to stress at making the last 20% perfect if it's not going to add that much additional output.
Don't forget about the ones who support and love you
I'm a firm believer that success is never achieved alone. It takes a lot of help and support from those around you to get you where you are, no matter how small the action. I'm thankful to my employer for giving me the time off for my residencies, I'm thankful for my friends and family for understanding why I might not be able to see them as often, and I'm thankful for a supportive partner who is patient and gives me the time and encouragement I need to stay focused. So, be appreciative to those who give you the opportunity and support you to achieve your goals. Remember that "success is never achieved alone. There may be one person in the spotlight, but dozens of people behind the scenes making it happen."
With that, I'm off to my next residency in India. Until then!