Jack of all trades, master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one.
The exact origins of the proverb are unclear, but one recognised view is that it evolved from the older phrase jack of all trades, first seen in Geffray Minshull's writing as a description of someone able to turn their hand to many tasks.
Over time, master of none was added, giving the phrase a more negative meaning and implying that breadth came at the expense of depth.
I relate more to the modern reframing: but oftentimes better than a master of one. To me, it captures the value of being adaptable, curious, and technically broad, while still building the depth needed to create useful systems.


