“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, in some respects, 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 many-faceted.
So, it is unfortunate when I hear underlying tones of insult affronting those who identify as a jack of all trades. It suggests that someone has not committed to learning something well enough to be specialized. Alternatively, many people have generalized skill levels containing many varying talents. Jacks and masters possess differing styles while not usurping the other.
Times have changed; lifelong trade professions are not apropos nor relevant to modern lifestyles. Passing down the secrets of the family enterprise generation to generation is no longer coveted, evidenced by the average American holding up to 12 jobs in their lifetime.
We have the flexibility to adapt, to shift our desires to explore different talents. Although not an argument that a doctor is not well educated nor specialized, it contributes to the idea that a doctor can continuously learn.
People who identify as jacks of all trades possess a wide range of 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 will often search out new things, continuing to learn and grow.
While they may not be naturally adept in things, 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 Jack of all Trades.
It is mind-expanding. It teaches us to have a critical mind and often requires a flexible mindset. By being adaptable; using the knowledge and skills we have acquired to create other things contributes to more efficiency in new tasks.
Often Jacks are fast learners and know how to study. They keep their minds active and sharp while enjoying the acquisition of new talents.
Being diversely talented can make one more employable, bringing 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, which is frequently a trait sought after for leadership roles.
With the knowledge of many topics and the curiosity to learn about others, Jacks contribute to imaginative and exciting conversations.
A by-product of being able to do many things well is creative freedom. It is liberating, knowing there are many ways to explore situations and the possibilities of discovering a new way of doing something is intriguing.
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 4-week course on jewelry making and decide that is not for you while your friend goes on to start a business with the skills learned. Yet, the skill you learned may come into play with another interest you have found.
In simple words, Jacks know less about more and Masters know more about less, but neither is superior to the other. Which are you?
Life is about discovering who we are at the core of our existence, then exploring the ways to expand and grow. Make a list of what you want to learn, and then start having fun along the journey. Who knows, you may discover the benefits of being a Jack of all trades, 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.
