For me, becoming a generalist has been driven by broad curiosity across many schools of thought – not limited to just software nor even technology. I can't even

For me, becoming a generalist has been driven by broad curiosity across many schools of thought – not limited to just software nor even technology. I can't even imagine a world where I would have been content specializing. One upside that hasn't been mentioned, is that not not specializing leaves more room for serendipity. I could not have followed many opportunities that have popped had I not been willing to start again as a novice. The only, but big, downside has been that I had to quit my post-grad studies and the academia. Just the thought of pursuing a single avenue for a minimum of four years is unbearable. Related to the above, I've also had to come to terms that I won't be one of the best in the world at anything (easily) measurable. It hasn't been easy to accept, but at the same time I've also begun to appreciate collaboration much more than competition. I believe it's also a healthier approach to life in general.