Should I become a specialist or generalist early in my career?

Patanjali teaches that mastery comes through sustained focus—what he calls *abhyasa*, dedicated practice. But here's what I've noticed: the deepest practitioners often start as curious generalists. They explore, notice patterns, then commit. The real question isn't which path, but *when* you're ready to choose. Early on, broad learning builds the foundation for later specialization. You're developing what Patanjali called the ability to discern—to see which thread matters most to *you*. Don't rush the choice out of fear that you're "wasting time." Instead, practice with intention in whatever domain you're in. Notice what pulls you back, what you think about unprompted, where small efforts compound. That's your mind signaling alignment. Specialization becomes powerful when it emerges from genuine clarity, not external pressure. Give yourself permission to be a "beginner generalist" for now—it's not indecision, it's research. The mastery will follow.