This phenomenological study examined the lived experiences of modern polymaths whose careers span both the arts and sciences, using identity theory and constructs like openness to experience, self-directed learning, and intrapersonal diversity as its framework. Through snowball sampling, the researcher conducted 13 in-depth interviews and analyzed the data using Moustakas’ methods, identifying 12 themes about how polymaths develop and experience their identities. Overall, the study concludes that polymaths embrace not fitting into traditional boxes, manage broad interests through creativity and time management, experience both the richness and difficulty of polymathic life, excel at creative problem-solving, develop through both nature and nurture, maintain their growth through self-directed learning, and are influenced by family and financial resources.