Master of 17
People often tell me to "stay in my lane." I refuse. And you should, too. We have the capacity to master multiple verticals. So why should we stay in our lane and focus solely on one? And why should any of us feel guilty when we take on new professions and skills well into our 30s, 40s, or 50s? I don't stay in my lane, but I'll stay on my 17-lane mega freeway. That's where I live. I have 17 verticals I develop. I've already mastered 3 skills and am currently working on the other 14. I still utilize the three skills I mastered. I used them all the time. But I want more, and there's enough time in the day to master more. Here's what I found:
Becoming the Master of 17
We've all heard the famous saying, "Jack of all trades, master of none." It's often used to suggest that spreading oneself too thin across various skills means you'll never truly excel at any. But what if I told you that it's possible to master not just one, but 17 trades over the course of your lifetime? And you can do this without switching careers. Here's how.
The 10,000-Hour Rule
Malcolm Gladwell popularized the idea that it takes 10,000 hours of deliberate practice to achieve mastery in any field. While some may debate the specifics, the core principle holds true: significant time and effort are required to become an expert. If we start at age 12 and invest 8 hours a day, we can master a new skill roughly every 40 months. By the time we retire at 72, that’s 17.5 different skills mastered! And that's not even counting crossover when you're mastering multiple skills at the same time.
Adding Value by Branching Out
Mastering multiple trades doesn't mean constantly changing careers. Instead, it means expanding your skill set within your chosen field to add more value. Let's take a singer, for example. Here’s how branching out can look:
1. Mastering an Instrument: By becoming proficient in playing an instrument, a singer can better understand music composition and enhance their performances.
2. Conducting and Arranging Choirs: This skill allows for more intricate and dynamic vocal performances, as well as the ability to lead and mentor other singers.
3. Marketing Music: Mastering marketing strategies ensures that the music reaches a wider audience and maximizes impact.
4. Creating Social Media Viral Content: In today’s digital age, knowing how to create viral content can exponentially increase an artist’s reach and influence.
Mastering Within Your Industry
The beauty of mastering multiple trades within one industry is that it creates a more robust and versatile professional. You’re not just a singer—you’re a musician, a marketer, a leader, and a digital content creator. This multi-faceted expertise makes you invaluable.
Personal Roles and Mastery
The concept of mastery extends beyond professional life. In my life, for example, I take on the roles of "Father" and "Husband" that also benefit from dedicated skill development. For instance:
- As a Father: Mastering patience, communication, and educational techniques can significantly enhance my ability to support and nurture my daughters.
- As a Husband: Learning conflict resolution, empathy, and effective communication strengthens my relationship and fosters a supportive partnership with my wife.
Practical Steps to Master Multiple Trades
1. Identify the Skills: Start by identifying the skills and trades that align with your primary role. Make a list of what you want to master.
2. Set Goals: Break down the 10,000 hours into manageable daily or weekly goals. Consistency is key.
3. Seek Mentors: Find experts in each trade to guide you and provide valuable insights.
4. Practice Deliberately: Focused, intentional practice is essential. Don’t just go through the motions.
5. Integrate and Apply: Find ways to integrate new skills into your daily routine and apply them in practical scenarios.
The Journey of Mastery
Mastering multiple trades is a lifelong journey that enhances both your professional and personal life. It allows you to become a modern-day Leonardo Da Vinci with a rich tapestry of skills that can be interwoven to create a significant impact.
Are you older than 12 and feeling left behind? The goal isn't to reach exactly 17. It's to start today and begin mastering multiple verticals. Don't fall into the groupthink that says you can only be an expert at one thing. Become a master of many. Remember, mastering multiple trades within your chosen fields not only amplifies your value but also enriches your life's tapestry with diverse, fulfilling experiences.
"Shaun's a master of his craft and a wonderful role model for all people, not just students." - Earl Hurrey, former Walt Disney Entertainment Manager and Deputy Executive Director of the National Association for Music Education.
A thrilling message and musical performance
Shaun is one of the most entertaining and inspiring talents of our time. Mix in an Emmy-nominated artist, add his captivating storytelling from the piano and wild musical challenges, top it off with a message that'll pierce you directly to the heart, and you have Shaun Barrowes. His content and performance are both youth-tested and parent-approved!
Students, teachers, and parents constantly praise Shaun's powerful insights and unique approach for competitive problem-solving and innovation.
About Shaun Barrowes
Award-Winning, Bestselling YA Fantasy Author

Emmy-Nominated Composer for his song, "Army of Kings"

Top 30 Contestant on
American Idol, Season 7
Performer with Bands/Artists including: Janelle Monae
Imagine Dragons
Lindsey Stirling
Songwriter for Jackie Chan and his Green Heroes tour


Songwriter, Music Producer, and Video Co-Producer for "Being Awesome", with almost 430 Million Views on YouTube
Singer and Songwriter for the theme song "Light of the Day/Dark of the Night" for Shadow Complex by Epic Games, the makers of Fortnite.


Winner of $30,000 Songwriting contest, Slice the Pie

