✌ This has been a while since I have been in this game, chasing money.. When in reality, money should be chasing me instead, when and how did this reverse happen? How did manage to sleep for so long? Today, I am reverting the game as I am starting to understand, that when you chase something, the same thing runs away from you.
So, Today is woke up from a long sleep. I remember the time, when I did not need to chase it, as it was coming to me in abundance. A time when everything I was touching turned into Gold and I was prosperous. I feel this season is about to start and endure for a long long time..
Is MBA Still Worth It in 2024? Here’s the Next Thing.
For decades, earning an MBA was considered the gold standard for career advancement. It was a ticket to high-paying jobs, top management positions, and a reliable pathway to success. But as the business world evolves, so does the value of an MBA. In 2024, we’re faced with a critical question: Is an MBA still worth the time, effort, and cost? Or is there a better way to achieve career growth? This article dives into whether traditional and online MBA programs remain relevant and explores the next big thing for career advancement.
The Golden Era of MBAs
MBA as a Career Booster
In the past, MBA graduates from top-tier schools like Harvard or Wharton were guaranteed a significant career boost. Graduates often transitioned into highly coveted positions, enjoying a substantial salary increase and expanded career opportunities. Whether it was management consulting, finance, or executive roles, the MBA was considered a critical stepping stone for ambitious professionals.
Exclusivity and Prestige
The exclusivity of these prestigious MBA programs added to their allure. The high tuition fees meant that only those with affluent backgrounds or high-earning individuals could afford them. But the investment often paid off, with graduates joining elite companies and leveraging their degrees to climb the corporate ladder.
Why MBAs Are Losing Their Edge
The Evolving Job Market
In 2024, the job market looks vastly different. Today’s business landscape is deeply technical and specialised, and a generalist degree like an MBA may no longer provide the edge it once did. Employers are seeking individuals with specific, hands-on skills in areas like data science, digital marketing, and AI. As a result, the broad, theoretical knowledge gained from an MBA often falls short in comparison to practical, specialised expertise.
The Shift Towards Technical Skills
Specialised industries now demand a deeper level of understanding, pushing out the generalists that MBA programs have traditionally produced. For example, marketing now requires expertise in areas such as SEO, content marketing, and digital analytics, while fields like engineering and UX design have grown increasingly technical. In short, the one-size-fits-all approach of an MBA no longer cuts it in today’s vertically specialised job market.
How Business Schools Have Adapted
The Rise of Online MBA Programs
To cope with the shifting demand, business schools have adjusted their approach by expanding online MBA programs. These programs have become increasingly accessible, removing traditional barriers like entrance exams (GMAT or GRE) and reducing tuition fees through discounts and financial aid options. The convenience of attending classes online has made it possible for professionals to earn an MBA while balancing their work and personal lives. As a result, the affordable online MBA programs have made this once-exclusive degree more attainable than ever.
The Dilution of the MBA's Value
However, the rise of affordable online MBA programs has had an unintended consequence: market saturation. With so many professionals obtaining an MBA, the degree has lost its cachet. What was once a rare and prestigious qualification has become as common as a bachelor’s degree, diminishing its value in the eyes of hiring managers. The oversupply of MBA graduates has led companies to seek other differentiators, such as technical expertise and real-world experience.
Executive Education: A Viable Alternative?
Short-Term Programs with Brand Value
One alternative gaining popularity is Executive Education, a shorter, more focused approach to business education. Offered by many of the world’s top business schools, these programs are typically a few weeks long, affordable, and offer a quicker route to brand recognition. While Executive Education won’t provide the same comprehensive learning experience as an MBA, it does add credibility to your CV through association with a prestigious institution.
Case Study: The Speaker’s Experience
In a recent example, the speaker’s wife completed an Executive Education program and found it highly beneficial for her career. The program allowed her to quickly gain the brand recognition that hiring managers look for, without the long-term commitment or financial burden of an MBA. This highlights how short-term, branded programs can still open doors in competitive industries.
The Importance of Brand Names on Your CV
Why Big Names Still Matter
Despite the evolving job market, one thing remains constant: brand names still matter. Having a recognisable name like McKinsey, PWC, or Harvard on your CV can make a big difference. These names provide credibility to hiring managers, who often associate strong brands with high-quality skills and work experience.
The ‘Assembled PC’ Analogy
Think of your CV like an assembled computer. If your CV doesn’t have recognisable brand names, it can be hard for employers to gauge your value. However, if your CV features well-known brands, employers are more likely to view you as a strong candidate, assuming you’ve gained valuable skills and experience from reputable organisations. This brand recognition is one reason why some professionals still pursue an MBA, but it’s no longer the only way to boost your CV.
The "Next Thing": Specialisation and Career Strategy
Dive Deep into Technical Skills
In today’s market, specialisation is the key to standing out. Rather than pursuing broad, generalised knowledge through an MBA, professionals are better off diving deeper into technical skills within their fields. For example, data science, artificial intelligence, and UX design are all areas where companies are hungry for specialised talent. The best way to gain these skills is through targeted courses, certifications, and hands-on experience.
The Power of Strategic Career Moves
Even more important than degrees or certifications is the ability to strategically navigate the job market. Many professionals struggle not because of a lack of education, but because they don’t know how to market themselves or hunt for the right jobs effectively. In some cases, a clear career strategy, along with the right technical skills, can be more valuable than an MBA.
Conclusion: Is an MBA Still Worth It in 2024?
While an MBA may still provide value in certain situations, particularly for those seeking brand recognition from prestigious schools, it’s no longer the universal key to career success it once was. In today’s job market, specialising in technical skills and understanding how to strategically navigate your career may offer better returns.
For those who want to continue their education, affordable online MBA programs and Executive Education offer flexible and less costly alternatives. However, before pursuing these options, it’s crucial to evaluate your career goals and consider whether brand recognition or technical expertise will better serve you in the long run.
Think carefully about your career aspirations before investing in an MBA or any advanced degree. If you're after brand recognition, consider Executive Education from top schools. If technical skills are more important for your field, focus on specialised certifications or self-learning. The right path for you will depend on your specific career goals and the demands of your industry.
Are you dreaming of boosting your career with an MBA, but the high costs and rigid schedules are holding you back? I’ve been there! In a world where flexibility is king, the best distance-learning MBAs are helping people like you and me break those barriers without breaking the bank.
In this post, I’ll walk you through the top five best distance-learning MBA options that won’t cost you more than $30,000. So let’s dive in!🌍🚀
Why Distance Learning MBAs? 📚💡
With more people working remotely and technology evolving, traditional MBAs are no longer the only option. Distance learning MBAs offer flexibility and affordability, allowing you to balance work, life, and studies. They allow you to study from anywhere in the world while accessing some of the best business schools globally. Plus, you can often complete these programs at your own pace.
But not all online MBAs are created equal. So, how do you find the best distance-learning MBA in the world? Let me share the gems I’ve found!
What Makes a Great Online MBA? 🏆
To help you choose the right program, I’ve evaluated MBAs based on three essential factors:
Tuition: Cost-effectiveness is a huge consideration. After all, who wants to pay a fortune?
Global Reputation: A strong university brand matters, especially when applying for international roles.
Specialisations: The right options to tailor your education to your career goals is critical.
So, let’s break down the top 5 best online MBA programs under $30,000, focusing on the best distance learning MBA in the world.
Top 5 Affordable Distance Learning MBAs 🌟
1. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (Ranked #1) 🥇
Cost: $22.5K | Specialisations: Data Analytics
Why it’s great: The University of Illinois tops the list because it balances global brand recognition and affordability. With specialisations like Data Analytics, this program positions you perfectly for the data-driven future of business. Plus, its networking potential is immense—there are thousands of alumni and current students in the program.
Why it’s great: Boston University offers an online MBA with a massive jump in brand recognition compared to other schools on this list. While it doesn’t offer specialisations, its reputation makes it one of the best distance-learning MBAs in the world.
Cost: Less than $10K | Specialisations: Data Science, Energy Business
Why it’s great: If you're looking for a more affordable option, Oklahoma State is a fantastic choice. Offering unique specialisations like Energy Business and Data Science, this program provides practical, in-demand skills at a fraction of the cost of other MBAs.
Why it’s great: the University of Nebraska is well-known both in the US and abroad. It offers traditional business specialisations, including Business Analytics, but at a cost that’s still more affordable than many other top-tier MBAs.
Why it’s great: With a price tag of just $13K, this is one of the most affordable options on the list. The University of Louisiana Lafayette stands out because of its unique specialisations, particularly in Healthcare Administration and Hospitality, two fields that are less common in MBA programs.
While all these programs are based in the U.S., one of the beauties of distance learning is that you can earn a degree from anywhere in the world. Many top European and Asian schools also offer online MBA programs, giving you a truly global perspective.
Check out my upcoming post on the best distance learning MBAs globally, where I’ll explore top programs in Europe and Asia!
Final Thoughts 🎯
If you’re serious about advancing your career but don’t want to spend a fortune, these are five of the best distance learning MBA in the world options under $30K. Each one offers flexibility, affordability, and the opportunity to specialize in areas that are relevant to today’s business world. Whether you’re in the U.S. or halfway across the world, these programs make it possible to get a high-quality education without leaving your home.
Let me know in the comments below if you’ve had any experience with online MBAs or if there are other programs you think should make the list!
In today's world, the key to breaking free from poverty lies not just in hard work, but in understanding and applying the right mindset, strategies, and skills.
Alex Hormozi, a well-known entrepreneur, shares powerful insights on how to transform your financial life. Here’s a step-by-step guide based on his teachings to help you become a millionaire in 2023. 🚀
1. Shift Your Mindset: See Reality for What It Is 🌟
Many people remain stuck in poverty because they view financial success as something unattainable. It's crucial to realize that wealth is not reserved for a select few. You can start by challenging your limiting beliefs and adopting a growth mindset.
2. Allocate Your Resources Wisely: Time and Money ⏳💰
You have two main resources: time and money. How you use them will determine your financial future. Avoid wasting time on distractions like binge-watching shows or mindlessly scrolling through social media. Instead, invest your time in learning new skills that can increase your earning potential.
3. Invest in High-Leverage Skills: Maximize Your Returns 📈
Not all activities are created equal. Focus on high-leverage activities that offer the most return on your time. For example, mastering sales or negotiation can exponentially increase your income without a significant monetary investment.
Taking on debt can be a smart move—if it's for the right education. Invest in learning skills that have a high ROI, like technical certifications or business courses. The goal is to increase your earning potential significantly more than the cost of education.
5. Seek Mentorship: Learn from Those Who’ve Done It 👥
Mentorship is invaluable. Hormozi emphasizes the importance of learning from those who have already achieved what you aspire to. Whether it's through coaching programs or networking, find mentors who can guide you and accelerate your growth.
6. Break Your Limiting Beliefs: Money is for Everyone 🧠
One of the biggest obstacles to financial success is the belief that wealth is not for you. This mindset keeps you from taking the necessary steps toward financial freedom. Surround yourself with success stories and learn how others have overcome similar challenges.
7. Stack Your Skills: The Power of Multiple Abilities 💪
Success often comes from combining multiple skills. Just like Jay-Z, who combined rapping, producing, and business acumen to become a mogul, you should focus on developing a range of skills that complement each other.
Consistency in learning and applying new skills is what separates the successful from the unsuccessful. Set small, achievable goals and keep pushing forward, no matter how tough it gets.
While it's natural to seek validation from others, the most important approval should come from within. Learn to trust your instincts and validate your own progress, which will help you stay motivated even when external support is lacking.
Without a clear vision, your efforts may lack direction. Define what success looks like for you and map out the steps needed to get there. This vision will keep you focused and driven as you work towards financial independence.
🎯 Ready to Take Action? Breaking free from poverty is a journey that requires commitment, learning, and the right mindset. By following these steps and continuously investing in yourself, you can start to see real change in your financial life. Remember, the path to becoming a millionaire starts with one step—take it today!
Curious about Bitcoin halving? Join us as we dive into the fascinating world of BTC halving! Discover why this event matters, how it impacts the crypto market, and how you can benefit. Don’t miss out—hit that like button, subscribe, and let’s explore the future of digital gold together! 💰🌟
Bitcoin halving is an event that occurs approximately every four years (or every 210,000 blocks) in the Bitcoin network.
During halving, the rewards given to Bitcoin miners for validating transactions are halved. This means that the number of new Bitcoins created through mining is reduced by half.
The Bitcoin protocol is designed to produce a total of 21 million Bitcoins. Currently, more than 19 million Bitcoins have already been mined.
Halving reduces the pace of Bitcoin issuance. As the reward for miners decreases, the supply of new Bitcoins entering the market is constrained.
This scarcity, combined with increasing demand, can positively impact the price of Bitcoin. Investors find this scarcity appealing, similar to how gold is valued.
Importance in the Financial World:
Store of Value: Bitcoin’s limited supply and issuance mechanism make it akin to gold. Investors view it as a store of value.
Hedge Against Inflation: As central banks print money to tackle economic downturns, Bitcoin’s scarcity serves as a hedge against inflation.
Long-Term Viability: Halving influences Bitcoin’s overall valuation and long-term viability. It’s a critical event in the cryptocurrency’s life cycle.
How People Can Benefit from It:
Investment: Some investors buy Bitcoin before halving events, anticipating price increases due to reduced supply.
Trading: Traders can take advantage of price volatility around halving periods.
Payment Processors: Bitcoin’s role in crypto payment processors can benefit from its scarcity and value.
Cryptocurrency enthusiasts gather 'round! Today, we’re shining a spotlight on Blum Crypto Exchange, a platform that’s redefining the way we trade digital assets. Whether you’re a seasoned trader or a curious newcomer, Blum has something exciting in store for you.
Check out my video review on Blum DeFi Cryptocurrency exchange..
1. The Hybrid Model: Best of Both Worlds
Blum isn’t your run-of-the-mill exchange. It’s a hybrid platform that seamlessly integrates both centralized and decentralized trading features. Here’s what makes it stand out:
Off-Chain Order Book, On-Chain Settlements: Blum combines the efficiency of an off-chain order book with the security of on-chain settlements. Say goodbye to endless transaction confirmations!
MPC or Self-Custody: Choose your style. Blum supports Multi-Party Computation (MPC) wallets or lets you trade directly from popular wallets like Trust Wallet and MetaMask. Security? Check!
2. Localized P2P Trading: A Global Playground
Blum believes in global opportunities with a local touch. Here’s how:
Localized P2P Trading: Trade with local currencies. No more currency conversion headaches. Blum connects you to the world while keeping things familiar.
Trading via Telegram: Yes, you read that right! Blum offers a unique Telegram mini-app experience. Imagine trading crypto right in your favorite messaging app. Convenience level: 100!
3. Rewards, Engagement, and Fun
Blum isn’t just about profits; it’s about community, engagement, and fun. Here’s why you’ll love it:
Leaderboards: Compete, climb the ranks, and show off your trading prowess. Bragging rights included!
Social Interactions: Connect with fellow traders, share tips, and discuss the latest trends. Crypto is more fun when you’re not alone.
Rewarding Point System: Earn Blum Points by completing tasks, playing games, and inviting friends. These points unlock exciting perks. 🎁
Ordinals & NFTs: Trade your way to unique rewards and NFTs. Collectibles meet crypto—what’s not to love?
4. Made for Gen Z and Millennials
Blum knows its audience. If you’re a Gen Z or Millennial investor, this platform is tailor-made for you. It’s intuitive, engaging, and designed to fit your digital lifestyle.
Conclusion: Join the Blum Community!
Ready to explore Blum? Start your crypto journey today. And hey, don’t forget to check out our YouTube video on Blum Crypto Exchange for an in-depth look. Hit that subscribe button, and let’s dive into the future of crypto together!
In this article, I will show you how to research layer 1 smart contract platforms. What is the point of examining Ethereum, Binance Smart Chain, Avalanche, and other base networks?
In short: It’s not just about determining the investment potential of an L1 blockchain itself.It also analyses the basic potential for layer 2 solutions in the given network.
Let me explain why.
A good layer 1 network is the basis for successful layer 2 solutions
We can view layer 1 blockchains as different nations. They are independent of each other, each of them has its own data, network, consensus mechanism, ecosystem, etc. They can validate and finalize transactions without other networks.The stronger a ‘nation’ is, the better the conditions for all projects developed as layer 2 protocols.
The law of multiplying by zero comes to mind: In some cases, a single critical mistake or deficiency can cause the whole system to collapse. Meaning that the most promising layer 2 crypto project will fail if the underlying L1 blockchain is a piece of junk.
OK.
With the basic understanding in place, let’s get to the meat of this guide and go through the individual steps of researching L1 blockchains.
How-to Research L1 Blockchains step-by-step
To determine the quality of a layer 1 network, you need to assess a couple of key aspects. Let’s look at them one by one.
1. Developer friendliness
This refers to how easy or difficult it is for others to build solutions on top of a given layer 1 network. The following points are of relevance here:
What is the chain’s programming language?An easy-to-learn programming language (or a blockchain that supports multiple languages) is more likely to attract developers.
How good is the online documentation and are there a lot of (up-to-date) tutorials available?This makes it easier for developers to learn to build on the chain.
What tools does the blockchain provide for developers of layer 2 applications?Think of software development kits (SDK), sandboxes, benchmarking tools, block explorers, smart contract compilers, debugging tools, etc.
To figure these things out, go to the L1 network’s website, and read their whitepaper and documentation.
2. Decentralization
Decentralisation is essential for blockchain security and its trustworthiness. What does decentralisation in this context mean?
Ethereum founder Vitalik Buterin differentiates between 3 kinds:
There is no single point of failure(architectural decentralisation).
no individual or single organisation controls the whole system(political decentralisation).
The network can be cut into half and each half functions like an independent unit(logistical decentralisation).
To summarise, you’d want to see a high degree of decentralisation. However, keep in mind, that there is no project that is 100% decentralised.
Moving on.
These are the things you should research to assess how decentralized a layer 1 blockchain is:
How many nodes are there?The more the better.
Where are they located?The further they are geographically distributed, the better.
What’s the share of the hash rate that individual mining pools hold in proof-of-work (PoW) networks?
How big is the share of coins held by the top wallets in a proof-of-stake (PoS) network?
If you want to understand this topic better, here is an in-depth article I wrote about the decentralization of some of the biggest blockchains such as Bitcoin and Ethereum.
3. Security
Another very important aspect is how immutable a blockchain is. Most of us are not IT security specialists. That’s why we have to rely on developers, contributors, white-hat hackers, and others to make sure the blockchain’s code is free from bugs and risks. However, there are several questions we can try to answer:
Can the blockchain withstand various attackssuch as a 51% attack, Sybil attack, distributed denial of service attack (DDoS), etc.?
It is also important for us tounderstand how different consensus algorithms worktheoretically and what their advantages and disadvantages are. This in turn can help us to understand what kind of threats or attacks the blockchain could be facing.
By the way, have you already checked out my article about how to research cryptocurrencies? It’s the most extensive guide for free on the net!
4. Active users and daily transactions
You can build the best software ever. But if nobody uses it then it is nothing. That is why it’s important to get an understanding of user activity. These are the stats you should focus on:
What’s the long-term trend of user numbers?A steady increase in active users is a good sign.
What can you learn from the number of daily transactions?Again, what you’d want to see here is an increase in daily transactions.
How many hodlers are there?This plays into the former two stats. While a certain percentage of people just holding the blockchain’s native currency is a good thing you don’t want too many people just hoarding coins without ever using them.
The get this information check out the list of resources I am sharing at the bottom of this article.
5.Transaction fees
Ideally, transaction fees should be affordable for users.Too expensive fees could have a negative impact on the chain’s development.However, it could also reflect how much users are willing to pay for the block space. Premium = more security.
6. DApps and ecosystem
This is a great indicator, because if we view each L1 blockchain as a nation, then the DApps built on them are like the economic sectors in the nation.For a nation to thrive, diversified industries and economic activities are essential.Also, a big and diverse ecosystem attracts investments and new solutions.
Go todappradarto see the popular DApps for every L1 blockchain. This website also lists the number of users of each DApp.
But DApps are just part of the whole ecosystem. Other aspects include exchanges (centralized and decentralized), and infrastructure such as bridges, oracles, APIs, etc.
7. Developer activity
This information can be found from the project’s Github page. It’s a great source for insights, even if you have zero knowledge about programming. Here you can learn about the following things:
How many active developers are contributing to the chain?
On the ‘Contributors’ page, you can see the contribution activity over time as well as who are the main contributors and during which time frame they are active.
In the ‘Commits’ and ‘Code frequency’ sections, you can check more details about the number of commits, additions, and deletions every week.
PS: the websiteCryptomiso.comalso summarizes Github commits information of 300 popular crypto projects.
8. Is the L1 network backed by VCs?
Institutional money is one of the easy to verify key indicators that tell you if a project is good or not. That’s because normally,VCs do their own in-depth research before they invest. However, being backed by a VC does not guarantee a project will be successful. The recent Terra debacle is a reminder of this.
9. Social media activity
To wrap things up, always take some time to check out a network’s social media accounts. Here’s what you can learn from taking a look at their Twitter, Telegram, Discord, etc.
What are they talking about?Just shilling the project or discussing problems and improvements?
Do they offer insights into road maps, development progress, etc.?
It isnot a good sign if the official social media accounts have not been updatedfor some weeks. It could be a sign that the team is running into problems or has abandoned the project.
Summary + Useful links of major L1 blockchains:
It is challenging to find all the information I have listed in this guide. For example, there is no website listing the active addresses of certain projects. Don’t worry too much if some information is too hard to dig up. Just try to gather as much data as possible in order to make a well-founded statement about the status of a project.
Here are some great resources you can use when researching some of the top layer 1 blockchains:
