“A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.”
It wasn’t until recently that I learned that there was more to the saying than the first part that we all know. I’ve read that this is the original full saying. I’ve also read that pieces have been added along the way.
Let’s take a look at this for a minute. It can be handy to have a general knowledge of a variety of topics. That’s how our school system works and helps to make us well-rounded. I think it’s a great idea to keep learning about a variety of subjects.
Is it really better though to have a small understanding of a large number of topics or to be highly specialized in one trade?
We don’t think twice about doctors. Every part of our body has a specialist. There are even sub specialties. Lawyers study a specific area of the law. Teachers each have their own specialty subject.
To bring it back to the trades, we have a good understanding of the specialization of electrical, plumbing, brick masonry, and floor coverings. Even plaster, painting and drywall are specialized. For some reason, this hasn’t caught on with much of exterior work.
It’s tempting to have one crew take care of it all-cleaning the gutters, mowing the lawn, trimming the trees, or building a retaining wall or a patio. The convenience factor is high. Just ask yourself if it’s really the best decision in the long run. Can we really have a deep understanding of one trade if we’re busy learning them all?