'Bad genetics?' Just specialize in the good you have to chase the 'C.R.E.A.M.'

Can you 'overcome the accident of bad genetics' and 'get the money; dollar, dollar bill, y'all'?

"Wu-Tang Clan ain't...." (This post has something to do with the rap legends from Shaolin, so keep reading.)

I’ve been systematically listening to "Atomic Habits" by James Clear. I’ve found it a useful resource to help shape these early days of "No Distractions" as I dive into the ocean of specialization.

You may recall I’ve already quoted some of Clear’s seemingly infinite wisdom on the little things that make for a better us. One specific passage from near the end of the book, however, really struck me: 

"Specialization is a powerful way to overcome the ‘accident’ of bad genetics. Our genes do not eliminate the need for hard work. They clarify it."

Put simply: the more you master a niche, the harder it is for others to compete with you. But mastering anything requires focus, intent, time and (probably) luck.

But, what should I focus on?

I’m not talking about figuring out the meaning of life here. But rather, the way to put meaning into life.

How many of us let ourselves get distracted by TMZ, TikTok, Facebook, X? (I won’t link to them—you likely already have the apps or tabs open.) Whether it’s fantasy football rosters, online shopping, dire news headlines or a pinging text message, there are thieves stealing our attention away from the important things.

Imagine for a second that we shut out those distractions because we’re so intent on what we’re doing.

It's happening for me as I type. I mentioned all of those distractions, but I didn’t fall victim to them.

I guess I’m in the zone. Having a "Clear" moment.

Is communication my gift? Does my DNA, upbringing, or my history of overcoming a horrendous childhood speech impediment dictate what I thrive on?

I can work a room at a social event like no one else. I love to write. But I’m also really good at math. (I even got the same score on both verbal and math on my SATs.)

Do we all try to 'get the money' without focusing on our natural talents or specialties?

I always quote the Wu-Tang Clan's "C.R.E.A.M"—"Cash Rules Everything Around Me"—in everything from work to social situations. In many ways, money is the ultimate driver behind almost everything. 

Wu-Tang Clan has a point.

That mathematical way of looking at things appeals to me. I often point to money as being the reason why an athlete chose a team, why a government adopted a policy or why there are no lids on recycling bins in Philadelphia.

Is simplifying everything down to "C.R.E.A.M." just a distraction, an easy way to cop out from what I can’t really explain?

Maybe not. Chasing the "dollar, dollar bill y'all" is much easier when you have natural talent behind the pursuit. We all eventually hope for that one thing that we can be our best at, be the "go-to guy" for guidance or inspiration.

If you’re not naturally great at something, you can try harder—but realize it might not lead to the "C.R.E.A.M." you’re looking for.

So, listen to your natural talent, don’t let it stop you from finding your specialty and work your butt off.