School of Hard Knocks

I have never had the desire to go to graduate school, but I love to learn. Being an entrepreneur for over 10 years now, I have often said that I attend the School of Hard Knocks.

The article that I will reference in this blog post quotes an entrepreneur that says, "My grandfather referred to me as having an MBA from the School of Hard Knocks, whose official colors are black and blue."  I love that, and I am sure that many of the small business owners who I work with can relate!

When you own your own business, you are constantly learning things that can't possibly be taught in the classroom.  Sure, they may teach you certain business concepts, but the real learning comes through the application and problem-solving.

Many entrepreneurs who got a MBA don't recommend that to other entrepreneurs.  "Start the business first," says business owner Tom Castelloe. "Jump in the water and try to swim."

I agree with this philosophy.  Do you?  I would love to know your thoughts on the value of graduate school (specifcally MBAs) for small business owners.