Specialize to generalize
Be known for a thing, not for everything.
I’ve been wanting to write this piece for the longest time because it seems like there’s a disconnect between the perceived value of specialization and the broader application it can have in generalizing skills across different fields.
My thoughts are:
Deep diving into a specific area not only makes you an expert in that field but also equips you with a unique set of problem-solving skills, perspectives, and methodologies that can be applied more widely than one might think.
In today’s age, we think we need to know and be good at everything, but that could not be more wrong.
I’m here to argue that we should not generalize. Rather, specialization is the new generalization.
Let me explain.
Don’t spread yourself too thinly
The core concept of this letter is, not to spread yourself too thinly.
Focus is key here.
The graphic is self-explanatory.
If you decide you’ll be generalizing, rather than getting better at a field you become mediocre at everything.
That’s not what you want to be in the creator economy.
This brings me to the next point.
Be known for something
We all thought that AI would replace blue-collar jobs first.
Instead, it’s coming for the white collars first.
That is a reality that shocked the world.
Then, of course, that question pops up in our minds:
“Will AI replace us? Will AI be able to do the work I’m doing at a much faster, better, and cheaper way? Will AI render human effort obsolete?”
By now you shouldn’t be surprised.
The answer is yes.
If you decide to generalize, the likelihood of you getting replaced by AI in every field is higher.
A specialized skill is harder to replace because you’re so good at it (even better than AI)
If you’re good at one thing, people will come look for you.
Master the art, master the concept, master the dos and the don’ts.
Eventually, this is a skill that’s second nature to you.
People would trust you for your work. People seek your advice on it. People would pay you just to teach them.
Once you master a skill, master another
Certainly, being known and certified for a skill means you’re more highly-demanded.
Once you have one skill down, stack it with another skill and continue the cycle.
Like learning sales, then marketing, then brand.
Time is in your favour.
You can do it slowly at a comfortable pace but never too slow.
For once, think and do to specialize, not to generalize.
You’ll become much more valuable.
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