How to Thrive as a Jack-of-All-Trades (Without Losing Your Mind)
Struggling to Define Yourself? Here’s Why You Don’t Have To
Dear Genius,
When I started this newsletter, I had one goal: to ignite the Genius within young creatives like you, who are tired of feeling stuck or held back.
We’ve all been there, standing at the crossroads of “What’s next?” and “Is this all there is?” But here’s the truth: you’re not alone and don’t have to stay stuck.
These letters are packed with hacks, insights, and practical tips to help you grow, push boundaries, and unlock your potential.
Today’s newsletter focuses on embracing multipotentiality and finding core roots.
I have included resource material at the end of the letter to guide you this year.
This letter will take you about ~6 minutes to read. The last article is available here.
The day after Valentine’s Day—often wrapped in grand expectations—is here. Whether you received flowers or chocolates or enjoyed your company, I hope you somehow felt loved. If not, know this: you’re not alone.
About a year ago, I wrote a letter addressing those navigating heartbreak or prolonged singleness, reminding them of their worth beyond romantic gestures. If you missed it or need a refresher, here’s the link: Did You Get Flowers? It’s a timeless reminder that love, in its many forms, begins with how you see yourself.
Now, let’s shift gears.
Jack of all trades, master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one
Chances are you didn’t know the quote above did not end with “master of none”. For a long time, we have seen the phrase jack of all trades as a negative statement. But in fact, it means more than that.
This letter is for the Multipotentialites—the jacks and jills of all trades. You know who you are. You’re the ones who light up at the thought of learning something new, who thrive in multiple arenas, and who often find yourselves stumped by the question:
“So, what do you do?”
This question is like trying to fit an ocean into a teacup. My mind races through the many things I do—writing, consulting, ministry, and more—and I’m left wondering how to condense it into a neat, one-sentence response.
Sound familiar?
In a world that glorifies specialization, being a multipotentialite can feel like a curse. You’re told to “focus on one thing” to succeed, but what happens when your heart beats for many? When your skills span industries and your passions refuse to be boxed?
Here’s the truth: You don’t have to choose.
Being a multipotentialite isn’t a flaw—it’s a superpower. You’re not scattered; you’re expansive. You’re not indecisive; you’re versatile. But here’s the key: stability of focus.
While you don’t have to limit yourself to one skill or service, everything you do should stem from a core root. Think of it as the trunk of a tree, with your various skills and passions as the branches. Without a firm root, the branches lack direction and purpose.
For me, that root is consulting. Whether writing, speaking, or ministering, it all ties back to helping others grow and thrive.
My Story: How I Found My Core Root
A few years ago, I felt overwhelmed by the sheer number of activities I was involved in. I wrote, consulted, spoke at events, and even dabbled in graphic design. While I enjoyed it all, I often felt like I was spreading myself too thin.
One day, a mentor asked me, “What’s the one thing that ties all of this together?” At first, I didn’t have an answer. However, after some reflection, I realized everything I did was about helping people grow. That became my core root, and it gave me clarity and direction.
Whenever I take on a new project, I ask myself: Does this align with my core root? If the answer is yes, I dive in. If not, I politely decline. This simple question has saved me from burnout and helped me focus on what truly matters.
Action Steps to Find Your Core Root and Thrive as a Multipotentialite
Audit Your Skills and Passions
Write down everything you’re good at and everything you enjoy doing. Don’t overthink it—list them out.
Look for patterns. Are there common themes, industries, or goals that connect these skills?
Identify Your Core Value
Ask yourself: What is the one thing I want to be known for?
For example, is it helping others grow, solving complex problems, or creating beauty? Your core values will guide your roots.
Map Your Skills to Your Root
Once you’ve identified your core root, see how your skills and passions align.
For example, if your root is “creative problem-solving,” your writing, design, and consulting skills might all serve that purpose.
Prioritize Without Abandoning
Focus on the skills or services that align most strongly with your core root, but don’t discard the others.
Schedule time to nurture your secondary passions so they don’t feel neglected.
Craft Your Elevator Pitch
Once you know your core root, you can create a simple, confident response to the question, “What do you do?”
Example: “I help creative professionals grow their impact through strategic consulting, writing, and coaching.”
Set Boundaries to Avoid Burnout
Multipotentialites often struggle with overcommitment. Learn to say no to projects that don’t align with your core root.
Use tools like time-blocking to balance your various interests without feeling overwhelmed.
Celebrate Your Versatility
Remember that your ability to wear many hats is a gift, not a burden.
Surround yourself with people who appreciate and support your multipotentiality.
And if you’re still exploring, that’s okay, too. The journey to self-discovery is just as important as the destination. Remember: A dabbler tries everything; a multipotentialite builds everything on a foundation.
So, wear your many hats with pride, dear Multipotentialite. The world needs your unique blend of skills, creativity, and vision.
Until I write to you again, don’t stop being a Genius!
James Iroro
The Genius Note
I hope this letter has inspired you in some way.
If you’re ready to elevate your life to the next level, I invite you to explore my latest book, The New Season Checklist. In it, I outline eight key pillars that, when applied, can unlock transformative change.
Engaging with these pillars will lay the foundation for a life shift that aligns with your goals and dreams.
Don’t wait—get your copy now and step into the magic that awaits you on the other side.
Looking forward to seeing the new season unfolding in your life
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