Embracing The Creative Generalists

“…everyone needs habits of mind that allow them to dance across disciplines.” - James Flynn, excerpt from David Epstein’s Range

Industries are evolving. The boundaries that define certain careers are blurring, and the ability to think fluidly across disciplines is more valuable than ever. From entertainment to entrepreneurship, the capacity to merge art, business, and technology is shaping the future of creative work. Generalists can thrive in this space, bringing fresh perspectives, bridging gaps, and fostering innovation.

This morning, someone called me a creative generalist, and that gave me relief from feeling some pressure to fit into a more narrowly defined career path. I went back to a book I had read by David Epstein called Range. It explores the power of generalists, offering stories and insights that affirmed my own journey. When typecasting (whether for being too short, too Asian, or not Asian enough) limited my opportunities, I sought other ways to express my creativity. By 19, I was already a New York City hustler, drawn not only to creating but also to exploring the city’s diverse subcultures. When jobs weren’t available, I joined forces with talented friends to produce events, stepping into whatever role was needed to bring an idea to life.

So if you’re like me, drawn to many things, if you are both the artist and the strategist, the performer and the producer, know that versatility can be your power. A creative generalist is not a jack-of-all-trades but a curator of connection, shaping the world through the fusion of ideas, disciplines, and experiences.

If you align with or consider yourself a creative generalist, how do you embrace your creative generalist nature? I’d love to hear your thoughts.