Over the years I have met folks who never identify with one true vocation. They are good at writing, taking pictures and even storytelling. Some of them who are great at sales are also drawn to motivational speaking and are great teachers in their spare time.
A friend of mine, who produces podcasts and acts in solo plays, all the while consulting with NGOs and SHGs to enhance their external communications. While a friend turned her passio for coaching into career coaching. Another friend is an accomplished HR leader with a passion for dog parenting, birding and writing. While another is a journalist and editor in the nature & wildlife conservation space with a background in advertising. And yet another who is into talent acquisition by day but passionate about dance over the weekends.
These folks who have multiple creative pursuits are known as Multipotentialities. Emily Warpick in her Ted Talk shone light on this term and ever since then it has gained quite some currency. These folks are unique in their ways.
They have a solid set of transferable skills and they demonstrate high levels of curiosity and learning agility. I have never seen them approach any idea with a closed off mind. They are always open to try new things and they are very good at making lateral connections.
Each time I have met these folks I have been inspired to pursue some of my interests as well.
Many folks consider being a specialist as the path to success. While there is nothing wrong with it, certain individuals need constant variety in their life and hence they pursue a few paths at once. Some may be absolutely related while others may be extremely divergent. Some may be sequential in their pursuits while some may be weekend warriors. There are no rules but I admire them for following their many true callings.
There are of course benefits to being a specialist. But in the long run, these individuals, who get their soul sustenance from multiple pursuits benefit more holistically. Cross pollination of ideas elevates their quality of work. Inspiration, as they say, is everywhere. And those who pursue such divergent paths often get inspired from other realms.
Should one pursue such a path? It depends on your risk appetite. A safe career choice often compounds over the years provided that you keep upgrading yourself. Multipotentialites may hit a roadblock or have entry barriers when starting something entirely new. Having a safety net to cushion the risk can often be helpful.
In any case, I continue to admire (and envy) the multipotentialities in my life. May I also get the courage to be like them.