Jack Of All Trades or Master of One?

One of these days, I'll write a Dev.to article that isn't just thought dumping onto a page. However, today is not that day!

I pride myself on being a sponge for knowledge. Recently, however, I've been taking a little break from reading around and trying new languages to give my brain a well-earned pitstop. Picture my brain somewhere warm and sunny, with its sandal-clad feet propped up in a deck chair and a glass of ice-cold lemonade getting it's hand slick with condensation. (Do not question how my brain developed limbs and apparently a working digestive system.)

Whilst taking a few days to myself, a question appeared in my head that I've been unable to shake: is all of this extra learning doing me any good?

The more I read about interview practices and techniques, I realise how much I flounder when asked technical questions by people who purport to know a great deal more than me. The thought of going into interviews and being quizzed on my abilities makes me incredibly nervous.

Now some of this can be put down to imposter syndrome, of course, but I must also accept a degree of responsibility . I'm a lot more confident in my programming abilities than I was two years ago but still know that I might not appear the most proficient when quizzed in a time-sensitive situation.

I've also never truly known what I've wanted to do.

For instance, I love video game design and Development - because I love stories and characters and art and music. I want to be part of the process that brought my favourite games before me.

I also love web development. The feeling I get when I've designed a beautiful and responsive site that is also accessible and functional? I imagine it's how a peacock feels when they've just had their feathers done at the local peacock salon.

Software engineering gives me great joy too. Mobile apps, web apps, programs - you name it, I want to know how to make it!

I have something of a childlike wonder for creation, for making things and being able to say 'look, I did this!'

But where does it end? Where do I stop and realise I have to settle for one?

How long before my 'breadth of knowledge' begins to be described as a 'lack of advanced expertise'?

Has anybody ever had the same dilemma? Whether it's about you or a colleague, friend, or family member: I'd love to hear your thoughts. No matter what side of the interview table you were on, how do you handle this type of CV?