Final Reflection

Read through your blog from this semester. Recall all of the experiences you've had a long the way -- the highs, the lows -- the fun moments, and the moments of drudgery, and even the moments of dread.

What sticks out to you as the most formative experience?

By far the experience of giving away dollars was the most interesting and formative of all the exercises that we did.  I had to put quite a bit of thought into “why” and then work up the courage to really approach a stranger and give away a dollar.  It was pretty crazy.

The experience that you'll remember years later?

Probably the same to be honest; although in general making and maintaining the blog will probably be the number one experience.  I may end up re-purposing this blog for the purpose of really pushing my venture.

What was your most joyous experience?

The process of ironing out my idea napkin was pretty joyous in general.  Between that and the elevator pitch; it was really fun to see my idea come to life.

What experience are you most proud of yourself for accomplishing?

The worlds biggest problems exercise was one of the more challenging and probably the first hurdle that I overcame in this course.  I actually wrote the blog post while travelling for work and it was a leaf that I turned over in the concept of being able to finish my degree while being a full time employee, husband and father.

At the beginning of the semester, I mentioned that I wanted each of you to develop an entrepreneurial mindset. And we repeated the mantra -- I am an entrepreneur. Now, at the end, do you see yourself as an entrepreneur? Do you think you have moved closer to developing an entrepreneurial mindset?

I do see myself more now as an entrepreneurial spirit than I ever have before.  I think it definitely refined and rejuvenated something that was already in me; a sense of ownership and dedication to my work and my ideas. 

What is the one recommendation you would make to the students who are going to journey down this path in the future?

Challenge yourself; everything in this world worth having is worth working hard for.  You can fail at something you never wanted to do; so you may as well try for something you love. 

What would you recommend they do to perform best in this course?

Set a schedule and alarms to remind you of due dates; but moreso that some of those deadlines will require fore thought (and interviews!).  Above all though; commit.  There were several people in the class this semester that seemed to “mail in” the exercises; get your phone out and interview people on camera and try something uncomfortable.  It can be crazy rewarding!

What would you recommend they do to foster that mindset?

Follow your dreams; you can reach your goals… 

I’m living proof…