Jill of All Trades: A Renaissance Woman in 2020
By Chase
A Renaissance Man is a person with many talents or areas of knowledge. There’s nothing more impressive than being able to adapt to or converse about any topic— even if it’s just at the surface level. You never know when a time will come, professionally or colloquially, when you need to jump on the tennis court or make a dirty martini. It seems as though the common phrase ‘jack-of-all-trades’ has met its match— a Jill-of-all-trades is who you should look out for now. Harkening back to times when dressing well and making a mean negroni were highly valued, our list is an attempt to remind you of the good ole’ days. To our fellow up-and-coming Renaissance Woman, here are a few essentials to master.
Shaken not stirred
You should always have the recipes for a few classic cocktails in your “backpocket.” Think Tom Collins, Old Fashioned, and Mint Julep. Whipping up a Cosmopolitan or a classic Gin Martini for your girlfriends on Saturday night will surely thrill everyone. Though everyone loves a nostalgic bud-light, you’ll find that these drinks are more up to par with that of a cocktail party than a slimy college bar. Quintessential and elegant, these drinks never go out of style. Ensure yourself an invite to every social gathering-- who doesn’t love a good mixologist?
Ms. Wikipedia
Smart is the new sexy. Reading a couple articles a day across a variety of subjects, or spending some time in a Wikipedia-hole will strengthen your understanding of the world and allow you to discuss a staggering number of subjects. From the history of Coco Chanel, to the geological anomalies of Yellowstone, you can never read too much. Having this baseline knowledge will also pay dividends in the workplace, at networking events, or when you’re trying to impress your significant other’s nerdy brother, or bookworm father.
Hole in one (or maybe two)
While golf isn’t the most exciting activity, it happens to be the ultimate networking pastime. Many business meetings occur on the course. One of the easiest ways to ensure your entry into the behind-the-scenes deals, golf is the perfect avenue for women to amaze their boss or business partner. A few trips to the driving range and putting green will leave you feeling confident in front of any client. You don’t need to be Tiger Woods, but a basic understanding of the game, consistently finding the green, and a few great shots are sure to impress.
Get into full swing
A quick tennis game is always on the docket for avid players, and why wouldn’t you want to join? An inherently social sport, tennis is not just played for the sweat and endorphins, but for the camaraderie and pleasant court banter. The game encourages friendly competition and strategy, giving you that much-needed escape from work. An impromptu game of tennis is likely in just about any social scenario— make sure you invest in a racket. It’s easy to pick-up, but hard to master— a great player is well-respected, and games with them are a hot commodity.
Get Hooked
Donning your waders and fly fishing vest— the streams and rivers await. The rushing waters, crisp air, and knowledge that you and your fishing buddies are miles from another human being are almost addicting. Whether it’s a catch-and-release affair or you’re fishing for your next lunch, nothing beats a day wading through the water. As a traditionally male-dominated sport, bringing home a few trout for dinner is sure to thrill. There’s nothing cooler or sexier than beating a man at his own game.
Hot Shot
Shooting Trap and Skeet are not just great life-sports, but also exhilarating. Nothing garners respect like a girl who’s a great shot. While it’s not as simple as point and shoot, practice can make perfect. Shattering a few clay pigeons does wonders for your confidence and is sure to stir up a little competition with your male friends and family members. Make sure to bring your shooting vest— or you might walk away donning a ‘kick-induced’ bruise.
Giddy-up
There is something elegant and timeless about women who are master equestrians. From the style to the intimate companionship a rider develops with their horse, being able to hop on one at the drop of a hat is awe-inspiring. While we all haven’t been able to master this pastime during our childhoods, it’s never too late to take up the hobby. One thing is for sure— Renaissance Women enjoy the outdoors despite earning a seemingly pretentious reputation. This is the perfect way to reconnect with nature and get your jeans a little dirty!
Smooth Sailing
Being on the water is freeing, ethereal, and oh so romantic. Knowing how to rig a sailboat? That is next level. Sailing and boating are fabulous activities to enjoy in the great outdoors with friends and family. Spend a bit of time familiarizing yourself with the basics of a sailboat (the boom, the engine, the sail, the wheel, and the ropes), and you can be the captain of your own adventures (or maybe the first mate, at least). If you want an easier alternative, a speedboat or pontoon brings just as much fun— all that’s needed is a boater’s license, some friends, and, of course, a boat.
Cause a racket
When the weather doesn’t allow for outdoor play, Squash and Racketball are perfect alternatives. With a healthy dose of athleticism and a friend, these two indoor games are great exercise. Plenty of cities and colleges have clubs all over the country, so there are plenty of places to play and new people to meet to play with.
Mind your P’s and Q’s
Etiquette goes a long way in life. Knowing how to properly set the table, RSVP, and write thank-you notes are small but greatly appreciated gestures. Manners are everything in a social setting. Taking the time to brush up on the basics will pay off. Good manners will open many doors that other preparations cannot— being courteous is recognized more than you would expect.
Set the Scene
Any dinner party or small gathering with friends is a hit with an assortment of small appetizer plates and cheese boards. While anyone can slap a wheel of Brie on a cutting board, or throw out some chips and guacamole, there’s an unmistakable art to setting out appetizers. While traditional mediums like classic cookbooks and the wisdom of Ina Garden are ripe with inspiration, we found some of our favorite ideas on instagram.
Play your strong suit
When there is nothing to do, what do you do? Being the girl with a deck of cards not only gives you a rebellious edge but comes in handy on the slower days. Knowing the rules of Gin Rummy, Hearts, or Bridge will keep you occupied for a lifetime. Regardless of what you play, a pack of cards will allow you to join in on the age-old form of entertainment enjoyed by old and young.
Be the Change
Lastly, a renaissance woman not only makes time to better herself, but her community. With the season of gratitude upon us and with so many people hurting this year due to the economic downturn and COVID-19, a little help goes a long way. Finding something you're passionate about, or a problem that disproportionately affects your community and taking some time to be a part of the solution, is a great and productive way to spend some extra time over the holidays.
Photo via Pintrest
