Woman-to-Woman: Dream Big

There is a lot of buzz about the Forte Foundation’s new program, MBALaunch for Women, which kicks off this weekend in Chicago. I’ve spoken with several women who will be part of the inaugural class of participants. The program provides women with guidance on the MBA application process through an event, webinars and advising. While the application support is helpful, that’s not where the greatest value in the program lies. This program, like MLT’s MBA Prep Program, creates a rare “aspirational space” for women. Participants will be able to explore their career goals, while surrounded by other ambitious women, learning from dynamic female leaders, and receiving coaching and encouragement on the application process along the way.

To be in an environment with ambitious women that can push you is a real gift. Too often, as women we aren’t thinking about our highest aspirations – those dreams that are almost too far-fetched to utter out loud. Many, dare I say most, women instead think in terms of attainability, compromise and balance, in which they place greater value on others, such as a spouse, a future, as-yet unidentified spouse, family, etc. Of course, there is nothing inherently wrong with prioritizing others – it’s what keeps the world moving with some bit of harmony. But it seems wrong that women should be committing to a Plan B of ticking off what they are willing to give up or forgo, before have fully exploring Plan A of what they really want from their lives and careers.

Whether you are part of a program or applying to business school on your own, surround yourself with people who will challenge you to dream big, to explore your highest aspirations, and not just focus on what you think you can realistically attain or reach. Begin to visualize your aspirational self – what you want to be and who you want to be. Consider what impact you want to have on the world. Think as big as your mind will allow you. You can figure out how you’ll actually get there later!