When I was in my second year at university, I wrote 3000 words of analysis on just the final 3 bars of Stravinsky’s Rite of Spring.

3000 words. On 3 bars. Essentially, 2 chords. And it wasn’t even a set assignment, just something I did for my analysis professor. You know, for fun.

I was a maniac for my chosen subject, back then. And I’ve forever since been a great believer in the power of developing specific and specialised knowledge.

Not simply what can be taught in the classroom. For sure, elements of “specialised knowledge” can be learnt. But it’s something more; your personal fusion of knowledge + passion + talent + beginner’s mind curiosity + ingenious application.

Outside of a few select domains (academia being one of them), many lose touch with their specialised knowledge, not seeing the opportunity to bring its power to their work.

So, let this be your call to action: to reconnect with your specialised knowledge and give it an outlet in your current field of endeavour.

If you’re in sales (who isn’t?): make your knowledge of your product or service deeper and more fanatical than anyone else.

If you’re working on a special project (who isn’t?): make your understanding of the big picture, down to every detailed nook and cranny, the envy and wonder of everyone else involved.

If you’re working for some bigger mission (who isn’t?): develop expert comprehension and mastery of that mission and its impact on the world.

If you’re in the relationship business (who isn’t?): your form of specialised knowledge is in building connection and rapport, creating agreements and commitments with near-anyone.

And if you’re a leader (who isn’t?): your specialised knowledge is the meeting point of strategy, change, people and results.

Information is cheap and abundant. Specialised knowledge is rare and extremely valuable. Develop your own personal fusion and bring it to your body of work. It will create something extraordinary. Like Stravinsky did in his Rite of Spring.