Lessons I Learned from Becoming a Manager and Building a Modular Degree

Lessons I Learned from Becoming a Manager and Building a Modular Degree

Introduction:

Becoming a manager comes with its own set of challenges and responsibilities. It requires a shift in focus from the product to the people. On the other hand, building a modular degree allows individuals to create their own educational pathway based on their unique interests and needs. In this article, we will explore the common points between these two experiences and highlight the valuable lessons learned from both.

Shifting Focus:

One of the first challenges I faced as a manager was shifting my responsibility from the product to the people. This change in perspective was crucial in building a culture that would result in the best products. It meant giving my team slightly more freedom than they were comfortable with. By empowering them and allowing them to take ownership of their work, I witnessed their growth and the positive impact it had on the overall outcome.

Similarly, in building a modular degree, the focus is on personal growth and development. Instead of starting from scratch, individuals can stand on the foundations of the greats before them. The self-curation aspect of a modular degree allows for the selection of courses and topics that align with personal interests. This flexibility ensures that the learning experience remains engaging and relevant.

Measuring Value:

As a manager, the feedback loop changes from days to months, making it challenging to measure one's own value. The results of my actions, whether good or bad, would take months to surface. To overcome this, I found it essential to celebrate every win, no matter how small. Recognizing and acknowledging the achievements of my team helped create a positive and motivating work environment.

Similarly, with a modular degree, the focus is on continuous learning and growth. The ability to choose what to learn next allows for adaptability and the incorporation of new interests. By tracking one's progress and celebrating each milestone, individuals can measure their own value and growth throughout the learning journey.

Loneliness and Collaboration:

Managing people can often be a lonely experience. The changes in relationships and expectations can lead to isolation. Finding peers and celebrating wins together has proven to be an effective way to combat this loneliness. Sharing successes, challenges, and learning experiences with like-minded individuals provides a sense of camaraderie and support.

Likewise, building a modular degree can be a solitary endeavor. However, the beauty of creating your own educational pathway is that others can do it too. By sharing our unique learning journeys, we can collaborate, inspire, and support each other. This collaborative approach not only enriches our own education but also contributes to the collective knowledge and growth of the community.

Actionable Advice:

1. Embrace Freedom and Empowerment: Whether as a manager or a learner, giving freedom and empowerment to others and yourself can lead to remarkable growth and success. Trust in the capabilities of your team and yourself.

2. Celebrate Milestones: Recognize and celebrate every win, no matter how small. This not only boosts morale but also serves as a way to measure your progress and value.

3. Find Your Tribe: Seek out peers and like-minded individuals who can provide support, collaboration, and celebration. Building connections and relationships is essential for personal and professional growth.

Conclusion:

Becoming a manager and building a modular degree both present unique challenges and opportunities for growth. Shifting focus from the product to the people, measuring value in new ways, and finding support and collaboration are common points in these experiences. By embracing freedom, celebrating milestones, and building connections, individuals can navigate these journeys with confidence and success.