The Myth of Focusing on One Thing to Become Successful


Growing up, I always had a passion for multiple interests and never wanted to limit myself to just one thing. However, as I pursued my dreams and goals, I was often met with criticism from others who believed that success required a single-minded focus on one thing.

Despite this, I never lost faith in my ability to excel in multiple areas and continued to pursue my passions with determination and hard work. And then one day, I stumbled upon the term "polymath" and a few others:  

  • A Polymath
  • A Renaissance Person
  • A Multipotentialite



  • All basically referring to individuals who excelled in multiple areas.  Well, I'm here to provide evidence so that you can confidently yell "BULL***T!" if you ever felt the same way.

    I was blown away by the examples of famous polymaths throughout history, from Leonardo da Vinci to Elon Musk. These individuals had achieved great success despite (or because of) their ability to excel in multiple areas.

    This notion that success requires a narrow focus on one thing is simply a myth. In reality, success is a complex and multifaceted concept that depends on a variety of factors, including hard work, determination, and a willingness to take risks.

    To all my fellow polymaths out there, don't let anyone limit your potential or your ability to pursue your passions. Embrace your strengths, work hard, and never give up on your dreams. You are in good company with the many successful polymaths throughout history!

    Here is a list of some of history's famous polymaths to take with you.

    1. Leonardo da Vinci (Renaissance artist, scientist, inventor, engineer, and writer)
    2. Michelangelo (Renaissance artist, sculptor, and architect)
    3. Galileo Galilei (scientist and astronomer)
    4. Benjamin Franklin (statesman, scientist, and writer)
    5. Isaac Newton (scientist, mathematician, and philosopher)
    6. René Descartes (philosopher, mathematician, and scientist)
    7. Archimedes (mathematician, physicist, and engineer)
    8. Nikola Tesla (inventor and engineer)
    9. Omar Khayyam (mathematician, astronomer, and poet)
    10. Polykarp Kusch (physicist and winner of the 1955 Nobel Prize in Physics)
    11. Marie Curie (physicist and chemist, winner of two Nobel Prizes)
    12. Elon Musk (entrepreneur and CEO of multiple companies including Tesla and SpaceX)

    Obviously, this list is not exhaustive and there are many other polymaths who have made significant contributions in multiple fields. But, I hope you take some inspiration from this. 

    Have a great day friends!


    “If you know the way broadly you will see it in everything.” -Miyamoto Musashi


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