Rethinking Generalists

Hello, builder! 👋

Today, we’re talking about the power of being a “generalist”—a role that I believe is a true superpower.

What does it mean to be a generalist?

Here’s the definition:

A person competent in several different fields or activities.

I started in one area—design. But as I picked up skills in engineering, product management, and leadership, I realized each new experience didn’t just add to my toolkit—it shaped how I think and solve problems. No matter where you start, each skill expands your perspective, helping you tackle challenges from different angles.

It’s not a bad definition, but being a generalist means more than just knowing a bit about different things. My own path took me from design to web development, and eventually into team leadership and strategy. Every step along the way helped me build on what I already knew, adding new layers to how I approach problems.

From design to engineering to strategy, these layers created a mindset that lets me approach problems from multiple angles. And that’s the key: every new skill, every new experience, expands your worldview and builds mental models you can apply to new challenges.

Specialization is not the only path to mastery.

Many people believe that to stand out, you need to be the best at one thing—whether it’s design, marketing, or a specific technology. But that’s not true.

The most successful people can work across multiple disciplines.

They adapt, collaborate, and connect ideas from different fields. This flexibility makes them more valuable. Why? Because solving problems—whether in products, systems, or anything else—is the core of building things.

Problems don’t care about job titles.

A product design issue might require strategic thinking, and a programming challenge might need creativity. The best solutions come from people who think broadly and can connect ideas across fields. It’s not about mastering one thing—it’s about seeing how different pieces fit together.

But what about the depth vs. breadth argument?

Some might say, “Generalists don’t go deep enough to make a real impact.” I understand that perspective. But a good generalist knows when to go deep. They dive into details when necessary, but they don’t stay stuck there. They always keep the bigger picture in mind.

What does this mean for you?

If you’re already a generalist, lean into that strength. If you’re more specialized, there’s real value in expanding your skillset to see problems from new angles. Learning across disciplines gives you the tools to solve complex challenges that don’t fit neatly into one area of expertise.

How do you start broadening your skillset?

It’s easier than you think. Here are three ways to expand your skillset this week:

1. Collaborate with someone outside your role. Work on a small project together or just have a conversation to see how their approach differs from yours.
2. Pick up a book outside your usual area. Read something unrelated to your field—whether it’s philosophy, psychology, or even a business strategy book.
3. Solve a problem differently. Next time you face a challenge, try approaching it from a different perspective. Think about how someone from another discipline might solve it.

The future of tech belongs to those who can learn quickly, think across boundaries, and adapt to new challenges.

Versatility is the new mastery.

It’s not about being the best at one thing—it’s about adapting, connecting ideas, and mastering what’s needed, when it’s needed.