“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.”
~ perhaps said by Shakespeare
The term multi-hyphenate has replaced the term jack of all trades. However, I believe multi-hyphenate is redundant to being a human being. We are all multi-dimensional and multi-faceted.
It is unfortunate when I hear underlying insults affronting those who identify as jacks of all trades, suggesting someone has not committed to learning something well enough to specialize. Many people have generalized skill levels and varying talents. Jacks and masters possess differing styles while not usurping the other. Adapting and shifting our desires to explore different talents is encouraged. Although this does not argue that a doctor should not be well-educated or specialized, it contributes to the idea that a doctor can continuously learn.
Times have changed. Passing down family trade secrets from generation to generation is no longer coveted. The average American holds up to 12 jobs in their lifetime, and few have followed in their parents’ footsteps.
People who identify as jacks of all trades possess many traits and skills. They are usually capable of understanding many different subjects, even those that don’t relate to each other. Adaptable to new situations, they often search for new things, continuing to learn and grow.
While they may not be naturally adept, they will usually find a way. They are not the ones to shy away from challenges but instead lean into them.
Even though you may not consider yourself a natural jack of all trades, you can expand your awareness to become more adaptable and reap some of the benefits of this mindset.
The Benefits of Being a Multi-Hyphenate
It is mind-expanding, teaches us to be critical thinkers, and often requires a flexible mindset. Adaptability and using the knowledge and skills we have acquired to create other things contribute to greater efficiency in new tasks.
Often, Jack is a fast learner and knows how to study. They keep their minds active and sharp while acquiring new talents.
Being diversely talented can make one more employable, providing an assorted set of skills that can lead to more opportunities.
Many Jacks have underlying confidence that they can handle it no matter what comes their way, frequently a trait sought after for leadership roles.
With the knowledge of many topics and the curiosity to learn about others, Jack contributes to imaginative and exciting conversations.
A by-product of being able to do many things well is creative freedom. Knowing there are many ways to explore situations and the possibilities of discovering a new way of doing something is liberating.
Let go of the idea that you must master everything you try. No new skill learned is wasted. On the contrary, who knows when a hobby can lead to a growth opportunity?
For instance, you may take a four-week course on jewelry making and decide that it is not for you while your friend goes on to start a business with the skills learned. However, the skill you learned may come into play with another interest you have found.
Simply put, Jacks know less about more, and Masters knows more about less, but neither is superior. Which are you?
Life is about discovering who we are at the core of our existence and then exploring the ways to expand and grow. Make a list of what you want to learn, and start having fun along the journey. Who knows, you may discover the benefits of being a Jack of all trades, which is, in fact, better than a master of one.
I’m not a jack of all trades; I’m a master of many. I don’t feel there is anything I can’t do if I want to.
