You know what “specialists” are, but what is a “deep generalist”?
Sounds like a term some LinkedIn influencer who inspires mostly eye-rolls came up with-
but the more I understood the term- the more I found myself relating as a “Deep Generalist”. I know I’m not alone here, and I see some patterns in those of us who are in this “deep generalist” pool… we’re individuals with a broad range of knowledge and skills, coupled with an ability to dive deeply into multiple fields. Rather than focusing on just one narrow subject, deep generalists have a wide-ranging curiosity and the capacity to make connections across disciplines. There isn’t specific data to refer to, but it’s safe to say a heck of a lot of us are neurodivergent.
ADHD Naturally Shapes Deep Generalists
Professionals with ADHD are constantly seeking new challenges and thriving on variety. This mental agility frequently leads them to explore diverse interests and see how they intersect, rather than sticking to one narrow domain. However, this isn’t just superficial exploration—hyperfocus, a common trait among those with ADHD, can be a profound advantage when utilized effectively by the professional. When a passion is ignited, they dive deeply into subjects, often mastering them more thoroughly than most.
"If I'm being completely honest, I don't think that there's anything I couldn't do at least half decent. I was born with the 'how hard could it be?' gene"
- Elyse Myers
This blend of broad curiosity and intense focus combined with what Elyse Myers calls the "How hard can it be? gene" makes ADHD individuals quintessential deep generalists. Given enough time within their career, they truly become a “jack of all trades, master of many”, enabling them to connect ideas across different fields. In creative, tech, or innovative industries, having the deep generalists' versatility, can elevate team performance and drive groundbreaking solutions. Their distinct skills often lead to innovative approaches and fresh perspectives.
1. The Power of Curiosity and Hyperfocus
A defining feature of ADHD is intense curiosity. Individuals with ADHD are often drawn to new and stimulating concepts, leading them to explore a variety of ideas and projects. When they find a topic that captures their interest, they can enter a state of hyperfocus, dedicating hours to deep learning and problem-solving. This ability allows them to gain extensive knowledge across different subjects and bring a wealth of insights to various challenges.
2. Creative Problem-Solving Across Disciplines
The creativity inherent in ADHD often shines when connecting seemingly unrelated fields. Deep generalists with ADHD draw from their diverse experiences to offer fresh ideas and solutions. For instance, in a company facing an industry shift, a leader with both marketing and tech expertise can bridge the gap between innovation and execution. Their ability to see patterns and connections that others might overlook makes them invaluable in roles requiring inventive insights and creative solutions.
3. Resilience, Adaptability, and Leadership
In a rapidly changing world, adaptability is a key asset. Deep generalists excel at pivoting between projects, roles, and tasks. Their broad interests mean they’re comfortable with change and adept at learning on the fly. This adaptability is crucial during crises or transitions, where their ability to handle shifting priorities and unexpected challenges can make a significant difference. Whether adopting new systems or tackling unforeseen problems, ADHD-driven deep generalists are versatile team members who handle challenges with poise, and often, with enthusiasm! The enthusiasm and high empathy of a leader with ADHD can inspire and motivate teams, while their resilience in the face of challenges ensures they persevere and find effective ways to achieve goals. Additionally, their ability to communicate across departments helps bridge gaps between technical jargon and actionable insights. This versatility is essential in modern work settings where cross-functional collaboration is vital.
4. Out-of-the-Box Thinking and Innovation
One of the greatest strengths of ADHD-driven deep generalists is their out-of-the-box thinking. The nonlinear and associative thinking typical of ADHD fosters a constant flow of new ideas. This creative mindset can lead to innovative solutions that often leave others saying “how did you come up with that?” Many entrepreneurs and inventors with ADHD have demonstrated how this entrepreneurial spirit translates into a workplace culture of experimentation and forward-thinking.
In a world where change is constant, having individuals who can seamlessly transition between domains and tackle new challenges creatively is more important than ever. Recognizing and celebrating the strengths of the ADHD professionals around you can help tap into a talent pool that’s often undiscovered or misutilized, but rich in potential.
Comments