Let’s get real for a second. We all know that being bougie means straddling that fine line between refined and downright pretentious.
And being a polymath?
Well, that’s like trying to be a Renaissance man (or woman) in an age where people think “specialist” is a synonym for “superior.”
So, where do these two worlds collide? Or better yet, can you truly be a bougie polymath without becoming the human equivalent of a hipster dictionary?
The Polymatic Trapeze Act
Polymathy is like a perpetual waltz through a universe where everything is up for grabs. It’s intellectual speed-dating with every idea, discipline, and random factoid out there, all while sipping on a craft espresso that costs more than your breakfast.
Taoism, with its chill vibes and “just go with the flow” mentality, fits this dance like a bespoke glove—if, of course, you’re willing to embrace the nonchalant, almost paradoxical approach to learning it advocates.
In my attempt to master the art of urbane intellectualism, I’ve found Taoism’s “wu wei” (that’s effortless action, darling) to be a match made in heaven.
Forget forcing myself into rigid academic silos; I let my curiosity lead the way, like a well-dressed Sherlock Holmes with a penchant for esoteric topics and high-thread-count sheets.
And, believe me, this laissez-faire attitude towards knowledge acquisition has brought me far more than just random trivia. It’s led me to dive deep into everything from quantum physics to the social impact of urban planning—all while maintaining the perfect balance of chic and cheek.
Being Urbane and Chic: The Esoteric Meets the Everyday
My journey as a polymath isn’t just about collecting intellectual badges to pin on my bougie blazer. It’s about living that knowledge, blending the arcane with the everyday.
Who says a conversation about Taoist philosophy can’t happen over a latte at the Harry Potter inspired Bad Owl Coffee in Las Vegas or that a yoga session can’t double as a deep dive into Eastern and Western philosophies?
This lifestyle isn’t just about keeping up appearances. No, it’s about genuinely integrating what you learn into the fabric of your daily life—like pairing a fine Bordeaux with an equally complex novel or discussing string theory at an art gallery.
It’s about being that person who can drop references to obscure 19th-century philosophers in casual conversation, not because you’re a snob (okay, maybe a little), but because you see the connections that others don’t.
Bougie Banter: Conversations as Curated Experiences
Now, let’s talk about the social side of polymathy—the conversations. As someone striving to become a polymath, my goal isn’t to show off my breadth of knowledge (although, who doesn’t love a good humblebrag?).
It’s about connecting with people from all walks of life and turning even the most mundane chit-chat into a masterclass on whatever topic is at hand.
Think of it as conversational couture. Whether I’m discussing neuroscience with a neuroscientist or waxing poetic about urban gentrification with a cab driver, each exchange is tailored to fit the moment perfectly. It’s about leaving each person thinking, “Wow, that was deep,” while they sip their organic kombucha or whatever’s in vogue.
The Practicalities of Polymathic Posh
Being a bougie polymath isn’t just about looking the part; it requires some serious behind-the-scenes work. Prioritization is my North Star.
I dive deep into certain areas while keeping others at a simmer, ensuring I don’t become a superficial dabbler. And with the information firehose that is the internet, filtering out the noise is an art form in itself—one that I’ve mastered like a sommelier with a nose for vintage.
The beauty of it all? My ability to merge insights from different disciplines allows me to approach problems in ways that would make a specialist’s head spin.
And let’s not forget lifelong learning—because in this bougie polymath’s world, every day is a chance to pick up a new skill, read a new book, or have a new conversation that adds another thread to my intellectual tapestry.
A Guide to Misconceptions
There are, of course, misconceptions about this whole polymath gig. Some folks think we’re just glorified dilettantes, easily outclassed by specialists.
But here’s the thing: while specialists are busy deep-diving into their chosen fields, I’m connecting the dots between disciplines, bringing fresh insights to the table.
Then there’s the myth that polymaths are just born geniuses. Spoiler alert: we’re not. It’s all about cultivating curiosity and being relentless in your pursuit of knowledge—preferably while wearing something fabulous.
Another common mistake is assuming that polymaths look down on specialists. On the contrary, we admire them. Hell, we even need them. But we’re the ones who’ll blend their expertise with others to create something truly groundbreaking.
And don’t get me started on the “jack of all trades, master of none” trope. A true polymath isn’t just flitting from one thing to another like a butterfly in a botanical garden. We’re mastering multiple areas and using that depth of knowledge to innovate in ways specialists can’t even dream of.
The Bougie Laced Taoist Journey
So, here I am, an unapologetically bougie, taoist-ish, polymath-in-progress, navigating this crazy world with a mix of intellect, humor, and just the right amount of snobbery.
It’s a journey that’s as much about living as it is about learning, aligning perfectly with Taoist principles of balance and effortless flow.
As I continue on this path, I’m committed to expanding my horizons, engaging in conversations that challenge and delight, and weaving knowledge into every aspect of my life.
Because, in the end, being a bougie polymath isn’t just about what you know—it’s about how you live, how you learn, and how you make every moment a masterclass in the art of urbane intellectualism.
Since 2022, The Chocolate Taoist has delivered uncommon nomadic wisdom to help you live a more interconnected and expansive life.
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Onward and Forward
Diamond Michael Scott aka The Chocolate Taoist
I agree with the others here—a fun read. One gets a true sense of your polymathematical character from the various content you write about. That you characterize yourself as a polymath makes total sense—and I love the new term you gave me, “humblebragging” is totally acceptable. If one doesn’t toot their own horn at times, how the heck can they be heard above the din of all the other monomath honkers?
Wu Wei is the perfect way of being for a polymath in a world and universe that provides so much awe-inspiring beauty. One never need strive to seek such knowledge; relax, release and surrender to what the world will always offer but do so with a sense of interested curiosity.
Thank you for defining bougie at the start! This polymath-in-academic-disguise had no idea. 😂 I’ve learned a new word today. Merci! (Also, you nailed it about making connections between disciplines and disparate traditions. Well said.)