Skill-Sampling for the Curious but Cautious Creatives

The old saying "jack of all trades but master of none" (originally "a jack of all trades is of no trade") was meant to push people toward mastery. Noble as that sounds, it piles pressure on us to pick a passion and pursue it to the highest peaks. But it leaves me wondering, somewhat anxiously:

• How do I know if the passion I choose is the right one for me?
• What if I invest money and time, only to fail?
• What if chasing perfection means missing out on other things I might be good at?
• Is there a way to explore new skills and hobbies before committing fully?

If you have ever asked yourself the same questions, this post is for you. I will share ways to safely sample new skills without breaking the bank or locking yourself into a lifelong commitment—so you can dabble without dread.

1. Find free learning resources

In today's world, nothing really comes for free...unless you know where to look. Here are the platters of possibilities for you:

•  Independent online learning platforms
• Example: YouTube, TikTok
• These platforms offer free videos from a wide selection of topics and creators, which requires you to curate your own learning. Be careful not to get overwhelmed by the vastness of it.
• A lot of creators not only share the technicality of a skill or how-tos, but also the 'reality' behind it, which can give you a better idea whether or not you want to pursue that route.
• The best thing about these resources is that they are always available as long as the creators do not take them down.
• Semi-independent online learning platforms
• Examples: Domestika, Skillshare, Alison, LinkedIn Learning
• These platforms already curate their course modules and give you good learning structures. They are mostly methodical, requiring you to complete all checkpoints to pass a course.
• Most of these platforms offer certifications, and some of them are accredited worldwide. You are usually required to pay for the certificates, unless you get them during the free trial periods. Check their T&Cs before signing up.
• Free webinars/online workshops
• Unlike the platforms mentioned previously, which you can search and access easily, this one requires you to be a little deeper in the algorithm to 'catch' them. They are usually offered by individuals or organisations.
• They are actually legit, but you have to understand that they only give you the amuse-bouche of learning, not the main course. Even so, you would normally get enough information as a starting point, so you can take the initiative to explore further on your own. Definitely helps narrow down your YouTube searches.
• Even though these workshops are completely free of charge and commitment, they usually require you to register with your email address and sometimes, your first name, too. Your information will most likely be used for marketing purposes; they will keep crowding your inbox, persuading you to pay for perks or sign up for paid courses. Remember that you can always unsubscribe to their newsletters after you get your freebies—lots of them.

2. Create time-limited challenges

Aside from money, another currency that holds its own value is time. Frame your learning as "mini experiments" (7-day challenge, weekend project, one-month trial, etc.). At this point, it is wise to not look at the new skills as more than just hobbies. This way, it reduces the pressure of long commitments while still giving you a taste of progress. 

3. Evaluate your experience

Now, it is time to reflect on your experience. You may journal it down or keep a mental note—whichever you prefer. Begin by answering these questions:

• Do you enjoy learning about it?
• Are you now more excited about it than before?
• Can you see yourself doing it again?

If you answer "yes" to all three, you may go on and dive in right away if you like. And if it no longer sparks joy, be grateful for the experience and let it go without guilt—Konmari style. The world is your oyster. If you do not find your pearl, keep opening the next one. But let's say you have taken a bite and happen to like the entire buffet. What do you do? Well, eat all you can, as long as you can.

Remember that nobody expects you to become the next Da Vinci. After all, "jack of all trades, master of none, but oftentimes better than master of one". So, what are you waiting for? Explore and have fun!