Where do we direct our attention in life?
Most people have natural aptitude for certain things, and they can get quite skilled at those things without a lot of effort. Conversely, there seem to be things we can put a lot of effort into and it still doesn't seem like we get any better at them.
Specialist or Generalist?
For years, I operated under the impression that it was important to work on my weak points. For example, I was never any good at public speaking, and I had a very strong dislike of it, as well. Likely... those two were connected!
Anyway, I took courses and workshops and became part of a local group (this was many years ago) where we practiced giving presentations and speeches...
At the end of several years, I was well versed — technically speaking — but I still had a strong dislike of public speaking, and still really wasn't particularly interested.
Doing What APPEALS to Us...
In the end, it's very hard to overcome a lack of interest in something... even if you have the skills to do well.
I definitely worked on one of my "weaknesses," but what good did it really do me? Since I never had any interest in public speaking, what was really the point of trying to teach myself to be good at it?
We talk about such things as "being a well-rounded person," but to what end? In a highly competitive world, does it do us much good to make sure that we are "moderately adequate" at lots of different things, rather than being truly expert at something we feel passionate about?
In the end, I think we are better off developing our natural talents to their highest possible degree, rather than worrying about having weak spots. After all, if I need an impressive presentation of something, why can't I just hire someone highly skilled and engaging, rather than putting on a "moderately adequate" show, myself?
Besides, what gets most people ahead in life is being truly brilliant at something... so why not direct our energy at that?
Suffice it to say that — all these years later — I have moved far beyond caring whether or not I am well-rounded. There are experts for hire, if I need them!
Thanks for reading, and have a great remainder of your week!
How about YOU? Do you tend to work on honing your strengths? Or building your weaknesses? Or some of both? Do you think it's better to be an outstanding specialist, or a well-rounded generalist? Do leave a comment — share your experiences — be part of the conversation!
(All text and images by the author, unless otherwise credited. This is ORIGINAL CONTENT, created expressly for this platform — NOT A CROSSPOST!!!)
Created at 20220315 00:50 PST
x384
As you said there are experts in different activities we just have to find the right person that can help us depending of our. Needs, we don't have to become an expert on everything, greetings
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