Many experts claim that anyone aiming to develop a skill, master an instrument, or lead in their field should start early, focus intensely, and clock in as many hours of deliberate practice as possible. The common wisdom is: if you dabble or delay, you’ll never catch up to those who got an early start. But when you dig into the research on top performers worldwide, from professional athletes to Nobel laureates, a different picture emerges: early specialization is actually the exception, not the rule.
David Epstein took a deep dive into the careers of some of the world’s most successful athletes, artists, musicians, inventors, forecasters, and scientists. What he found was surprising: in most fields—especially those that are complex and unpredictable—generalists outperform specialists. These generalists often find their path later in life, juggling multiple interests instead of focusing on just one. They tend to be more creative, adaptable, and capable of making connections that their specialized peers might overlook.
Range is a thought-provoking and thoroughly researched book that advocates for the power of breadth over depth. It suggests that inefficiency can be a good thing: failing a test, for instance, is one of the best ways to learn, and frequent “quitters” often end up with the most fulfilling careers. The biggest innovators tend to cross boundaries rather than dig deeper into one area. And as specialization and AI continue to dominate certain areas, those who think broadly and embrace varied experiences and perspectives will be the ones who truly stand out.
