An acquaintance recently suggested a book to me that I am reading now called Refuse to Choose, written by Barbara Sher, a career counselor. As the Amazon description says, “Sher identifies someone she calls The Scanner who frequently has a multiplicity of interests, but finds it hard to create a successful life he or she loves because their passions and abilities are taking them in so many different directions.”
As I read the introductory chapters I admit to feeling a bit of recognition in the descriptions of these so-called “scanners”. If I tried to pursue everything I took an interest in I’d end up barely touching on most of them. In the past year or so I’ve taken swimming lessons, started teaching myself C#, begun learning to touch-type (again), written a novel, gone on about a million dates, bought a new sketchbook with a bunch of pens and pencils, and a new graphics tablet for drawing and probably a bunch of other things I’m forgetting. All of this on top of a job search since being laid off, and even that has taken a twist or two as I re-evaluate what truly interests me as far as work goes.
I’m definitely interested in seeing what the book offers beyond “you’re not a freak for having so many interests”. I feel I’m at a bit of a crossroads right now, so the timing is especially appropriate.