Generalist framework

If you're a naturally curious person, odds are you're a generalist. Everyone is to a certain extent. It brings diversity to life and encourages continual learning and growth.

Generalists can get a bad rap and be overlooked when they're compared to someone that's specialized in one field or topic. Obviously, there's professions that lend themselves to specialization more than others (surgeons, art historians, etc...), but for the most part an extremely talented generalist can unlock super powers for organizations regardless the size.

These individuals bring unique thought, experience, and understanding to the table. Plus, they're typically the hardest workers out there. Charlie Munger always stressed multidisciplinary studies because it leads to so many benefits.

The enemy of a generalist is mediocrity. If you're average in an array of different things, there's limited value, which leads to the bad rap. Incredible generalists raise their bar high, aim to be better than most specialists, and most importantly, deliver.

In order to get there, it's helpful to have a consistent framework when approaching new topics or interests. It not rocket science, it's effort, and you need to push yourself beyond the first response ChatGPT provides on the topic.

1. Get up the learning curve - This is the easy part, absorb information on the topic, read what's out there, buy the books, use Perplexity, listen to podcasts. Cast a wide net.
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2. Set the bar - This gets a bit harder, try to formulate an opinion on who actually knows what they're talking about. There's a lot of noise, but if you see the same name popping up that's probably a good person to start gravitating towards. Start paying attention more closely to them and blocking out "non-primary" sources.
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3. Network - Networking unlocks true insights and boots on the ground perspectives. Network with a purpose, develop worthwhile questions, and always ask for another introduction. You may not be able to connect with the industry/topic leader, but there's plenty of others that can offer help. Always be appreciative for their time!
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4. Practice - Do a mock investment memo for an angel investment, stand up a Webflow landing page, start a Shopify store, whatever you're looking to learn, there's probably a good way to get some experience before anything "official".
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5. Get feedback - Asking others what they think is the quickest way to understand where you stand. Ask for tips to improve. Don't get down over poor feedback. Be wary of those who want to avoid hurting your feelings, but if they're giving you a bunch of tips/feedback, you can probably read between the lines.

It goes without saying, it's helpful to stay in the same ballpark. If a backend engineer wants to learn the frontend, they'll have a great shot at rising above mediocrity. If a finance guy wants to become an engineer, it's going to be much more difficult. Different companies are paving the way for more generalists like Figma, Cursor, etc... and with a solid framework there's never been a better time to learn, build, and explore.