To Be Generalized or Specified
Dilbert Comic for February 1: https://t.co/9iN1rScDs1
— Dilbert (@Dilbert_Daily) February 1, 2021
In a recent video Tim Ferriss discusses the topic: "Should You Specialize or Be a Generalist?"
He talks about the time he asked Scott Adams for some career advice (artist of the well-known Dilbert comics) and it's interesting to see Adams' perspective on this one.
Adams believes that by combining a handful of highly effective skills with your core skill it multiplies the effect that core skill. An example in Ferriss' video is combining computer science and law or an extremely specialized position in finance with public speaking.
Not trying to master a thousand different skills
Tim Ferriss
Ferris points out how Warren Buffett once said that his greatest investment was in Dale Carnegie's public speaking course (author of How to Win Friends and Influence People), proof this concept really works.
He also suggests coupling these 3 powerful skills with your core skills to help multiply them:
- Public Speaking
- Writing
- Negotiating
Winning if you fail
When setting your goals it's important to set yourself up to win even if you reach an objective failure of results. What Ferriss explains is, that he likes to commit to one thing within a 6-12 month time frame based on the kind of skills and relationships he will develop along the way.
By making these kinds of committments, it opened the door for Ferriss, leading into podcast opportunities with hosts like Joe Rogan, Marc Maron, and others, he eventually started his own show, and blog, the rest is history.
In conclusion by building solid relationships with good people, combined with marketable skills that you can transfer into your next role, you will as Ferriss says "bulletproof" yourself and WIN!