You’ve probably heard the quote, “A jack of all trades is a master of none.” It implies that diversification is a bad thing, but in reality, that saying is being quoted incorrectly. The original Old English version is actually “A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.” I couldn’t agree more. Diversification of time and energy is a great thing. Afterall, isn’t that what work-life integration is all about?
When it comes to diversification, more is better not only for our careers but for our personal lives too. It keeps us balanced, energized, and mentally fit.
Here are some ways to add diversification to your life:
- Look at developing a portfolio career and sharing your talents more broadly. Think about all of your expertise and experience here. How can you parlay them into a possible side hustle or new career?
- Brainstorm about how you can expand your skillset. What do others know that you want to improve upon? What resources can you leverage to help make it happen?
- Take a course on a topic that you find fascinating. The sky’s the limit. It can be anything from cooking to investing to landscaping. The possibilities are endless.
- Listen to a podcast hosted by someone who is completely different than you. You never know what you can learn and absorb. You’ll be exposed to a fresh take on topics that you are already familiar with.
- Pick up a new hobby. Something that you’ve always wanted to do but didn’t think you had time for. Maybe painting, pottery, or dirt biking. Whatever makes your heart sing.
- Mix up the way that you do things. Take a different route, or find a fresh process to complete a typical task. When you change things, you expand and grow.
- Make a new friend. While you’re at it, reach out to an old one that you haven’t talked to in awhile. A diversity of conversation brightens your days.
- Join a social group or business organization. Networking is a wonderful way to bring more diversity into your life. You’ll hear about unique opportunities and get to know people you wouldn’t have met otherwise.
- Get a professional license or certification. This could be in an area related to your career or another area that appeals to you.
- Learn how to play an instrument. Playing music increase creativity, innovation, and can lead to a possible side gig. You never know.
- Teach a course (or two). When we teach, we learn. Share your knowledge and gain more knowledge in return.
- Write about a subject that you are passionate about. This will lead to you doing more research, and giving deeper thought to concepts that you are already very familiar with.
- Change up your routine in the best possible way. Diversity of routine reduces boredom and overwhelm, and increases feelings of contentment and positivity.
As you can see, diversification can add to your life, income, and balance. Look for ways that you can diversify and reap the benefits both personally and professionally.