The Allure of Categorisation or Tagging

For the longest time, I have never really liked or understood the need for categorisation. I felt that when people classify you, they tarnish your worth. I also thought of myself as a generalist, believing there is more to me than just one ascribed label. Then, it finally hit me why people want to classify you: it brings them a little sense of security and something to hold on to if things go awry (which could be both good and bad). To those who actively chase this categorisation and put in the work, it gives them a sign of competence. However, for those who chase it without putting in the effort, it merely strokes their ego. But I think the work comes before the tag or categorisation. I don't believe the tags make you competent; it is your work and, most especially, your actions that prove that.

There are also times when you are ascribed a categorisation that you didn't choose for yourself. As Nassim Taleb said, "Domain independence is still domain dependent." That is, our domain still influences how we are perceived and how our actions are viewed outside of that domain. I also felt that skills should be transferable, but over-classification, categorisation, and tagging lead to less transfer of skills. "Once it is not in my job description, I am not doing it." This is limiting in itself. But in startups, it's different, and in family, you are everything — you can even be Superman and Superwoman.

In addition, I will say that categorisation and tagging lead to the stifling of personality. I always thought I had this bad boy trait in me, even though I mostly try to do good with a little bit of bad. If I do too much good to you, you will think I am not capable of harm. If I do too much bad to you, I am sure you will want nothing to do with me.

Finally, one realisation that hit me was job security. In this world, where getting a job is like a sprint in muddy water, people pick a profession with categorisation and tags because when they are done, they are sure of a pathway to a job. As it is said, "If you do not stand for anything, you fall for anything." So, probably, pick a tag and categorisation and get to work!

In conclusion, we are more than the tags and classifications we are ascribed or that we ascribe to ourselves. Chase your interests and be curious; following your interests and goals might lead you to a tag and categorisation you are comfortable with. As you chase your interests, goals, and dreams, also have a little bit of reality (touch grass). You know we are in Nigeria!

P.S. Don't take advice from lazy people. You will get burnt out. Unbound, I am out!