Why Being a Jack of All Trades Is the Ultimate Superpower (And Science Proves It!)

Discover how embracing a wide range of skills can future-proof your career and happiness.

Imagine a child who tries soccer, painting, chess, and science experiments before settling on tennis. Or a professional who bounces between marketing, coding, and design before launching a breakthrough startup. In a culture that idolizes the early specialist—think Tiger Woods or Mozart—David Epstein’s 'Range' brings a refreshing, evidence-backed perspective: those who start broad often finish best.

Epstein’s research reveals that most top performers—from athletes to entrepreneurs—benefited from a 'sampling period,' where they explored many interests before specializing. This approach builds a rich toolkit of skills, perspectives, and mental models, making generalists more adaptable and creative when facing complex, unpredictable challenges.



But why does range matter so much? The answer lies in the way our brains learn and solve problems. When you struggle, make mistakes, and even fail, you’re building deeper, more flexible knowledge. This is called 'desirable difficulty.' It feels inefficient in the moment, but it’s the secret to lasting expertise. Likewise, analogical thinking—seeing patterns across unrelated fields—fuels innovation. Many scientific and business breakthroughs happen when someone borrows an idea from another domain entirely.

Consider the story of Roger Federer, who sampled many sports before focusing on tennis, or Nobel laureates who are far more likely to have artistic hobbies outside their main field. Their breadth gives them a creative edge, allowing them to connect dots others don’t see.

In the workplace, the value of range is even more pronounced. Over 75% of college graduates work outside their major, and the jobs of tomorrow may not exist today. Those who thrive are the ones who can learn quickly, collaborate across disciplines, and see the big picture.



So, how can you cultivate your own range? Start by exploring new hobbies and side projects, even if they seem unrelated to your main goals. Seek out cross-disciplinary experiences, and don’t be afraid to switch paths or careers if your interests change. Remember, every detour adds to your toolkit.

In the end, range isn’t just about professional success—it’s about living a rich, fulfilling life. Embrace your curiosity, nurture your breadth, and trust that your unique journey is your greatest strength.

For more on the science and stories behind generalist success, check out these resources: 1 2 3