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By the time you finish this sentence, at least two new AI thingies have been announced. Big tech will have made some ridiculous promise that either makes you question your livelihood or makes you go, “Cool story, bro.”
Not gonna lie; this ish is exhausting. Trying to keep up makes my head hurt, and keeping up is literally my job. 😩
How to avoid AI overwhelm
So, how do you focus on what truly matters in the world of AI? It starts with a simple yet powerful shift in perspective. Instead of getting bogged down in the latest tools and trends, focus on the problems you want to solve. 🤓☝️
Ask yourself:
- What challenges are you facing at work or in your personal life that AI could help solve?
- What outcomes do you want to achieve?
- Write down tasks you do repeatedly that feel slow or tedious, like research, writing, or summarizing information.
Next, test two or three AI tools specifically built for those tasks. Use each tool for at least one day to see if it makes your workflow faster or easier. Keep only the ones that save you time or simplify your day. Ignore the rest, no matter how popular they seem.
Also: The most popular AI tools (and what that even means)
This quick testing process stops overwhelm before it starts and ensures that every tool you use is worth it.
The AI tools I use
For my specific workflow, here are the AI tools I use.
🤖 ChatGPT – My beloved! I’m using ChatGPT kinda like a creative assistant, to help me generate ideas. I don’t use it for the heavy lifting like creating content… I may be a creative snob, but I don’t think AI writing is that good… I’m willing to admit I could be biased and refuse to be replaced by a machine. 😤
That’s it for my daily workflow. But like I said, you need to pick what works for you and not blindly follow anyone (including me).
I’ve replaced passive learning with immediate action. I’m at the age where I don’t learn anything “just ’cause.” I need to be able to use that information immediately. Quality over quantity. I have a few trusted sources I rely on for AI news.
Also: I was an AI skeptic until these 5 tools changed my mind
Shameless plug, I rely on ZDNET for my AI news, not just because I work here, but because I trust our commitment to fair and unbiased reporting. Plus, Aly (my editor) doesn’t play that; if you fall out of line, she will check you. 🤣
All that said, I’ll leave you with this checklist
Feel me?
😇 Hope this helps. I’m rooting for you.
P.S. If you want more easy and helpful AI tips and tricks. Sign up for my free newsletter, No Fluff Just Facts.
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