Two roles in two different phases of your growth

Starting a career can often feel like stepping into a world of endless possibilities. It’s like setting off on a thrilling adventure where every new opportunity is a chance to learn something new. When I began my career I was all about embracing that generalist spirit. I wanted to explore as many different fields as possible, soak up knowledge, and move on to the next exciting thing. After all, there were so many interesting topics out there, and I didn’t want to miss out on any of them. Life is short, right? But then again…

The great debate between generalization and specialization has always been there. Some say you should stay a generalist, while others argue that to truly master something, you need to specialize. Quoting Robert A. Heinlein: “Specialization is for insects”. But what’s the right path?

In the early days of my career, I was firmly in the generalist camp. I was captivated by a myriad of subjects, and the idea of narrowing down my focus seemed like a distant prospect. It was an exciting time, filled with new challenges and constant learning. The joy of jumping from one field to another was undeniable, and I couldn’t resist the allure of the unknown.

As time went on and my career evolved, the question of whether to specialize started creeping in. I discovered that while being a generalist was fun, specialization could be just as exciting and rewarding. One critical lesson I learned is that specialization thrives on passion. It’s the burning desire for a subject that fuels sustained focus and continuous learning. If you’re not genuinely interested in a field, it’s tough to compete with those who are.

Specialization doesn’t have to mean putting all your eggs in one basket. I also explored the concept of skill stacking—specializing in a couple of related skills. It required extra effort but led to unique and valuable opportunities. Operating at the intersection of these specialized skills can be both professionally fulfilling and strategically advantageous. My journey also led to an unintended specialization, one that emerged naturally through the randomness of the different projects I worked in. It wasn’t part of my original plan, but it now plays a crucial role in complementing my broader skill set.

I’ve come to appreciate that the choice between generalization and specialization isn’t a black-and-white decision. It’s a journey that unfolds organically as you follow your interests and ambitions. If a particular field truly captivates you and calls you to dive deep, you’ll find yourself naturally gravitating towards specialization. Enjoy the journey, savor the exploration, and trust that your career path will reveal itself in due course.

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