When I first began using AI technology, I believed it would be a simple tool to integrate into my daily tasks. I felt extremely competent in those early days as I experimented with its features. However, after more than two years of daily use, I understood how much time I wasted due to my limited knowledge of its functionalities and capabilities. I learned that understanding the fundamentals of AI, including its algorithms and applications, is crucial for effective use. My experiences can offer valuable insights to anyone interested in AI, whether you are just starting to explore its possibilities or have some experience and want to deepen your understanding.
One of my biggest realizations is that AI isn’t replacing your job. Instead, someone who knows how to use AI effectively will take your place. It’s not about robots taking over; it’s about younger, more agile users who understand how to automate tasks and outperform others. That urgency to adapt is very real.
The best way to improve with AI is to create situations where you’re forced to use it. For example, if you want to learn, start a project, build an app, automate your morning routine, or tackle a work problem using AI tools. These “forcing functions” will help you learn by doing.
A compelling method to deepen your understanding is to become the AI person in your circle. Start sharing what you learn. Post insights on social media, send AI articles to your friends and be the go-to person for AI advice. It might feel small, but it makes a big difference. When others ask you questions, you’ll be pushed to grow and stay ahead.
What often goes unnoticed is how much your productivity depends on those around you. When your team or your peers are more efficient, so are you. Encouraging others to use AI doesn’t just help them—it makes your life easier, too. Start nudging them by asking, “What did ChatGPT say?” or sharing helpful prompts. It’s subtle, but it works.
Using AI effectively requires a shift in perspective. Think of yourself as a conductor and AI as your orchestra. It’s not about AI doing everything. It’s about how you coordinate various tools to produce something meaningful. Don’t limit AI to small tasks; use it as a thought partner and problem solver.
It’s tempting to want to automate everything, but not all tasks are worth automating. If something takes five minutes a month, it’s not worth turning into a workflow. Be mindful of what truly adds value, and don’t fall into the trap of over-automation.
Focus on automating specific tasks rather than entire processes. You’ll get overwhelmed if you try to do too much at once. Break things down into smaller chunks. For example, if you’re writing a YouTube script, start with just the intro or the call-to-action, not the entire thing.
We often assume everyone else is on the same page, but most people still don’t use AI tools regularly. You’re likely in a bubble. Just because you’re surrounded by people who talk about AI doesn’t mean the rest of the world is caught up. Spread the knowledge.
The sooner you get involved, the better. AI is still in a phase where the learning curve is steep, but the benefits are massive. The earlier you adopt, the more you’ll benefit from the skill gap. That gap won’t stay open forever.
Start thinking of AI as your central teammate, not a side tool. It’s available 24/7, fast, and extremely capable. Whether writing emails, offering advice, or helping you plan, use AI in as many areas of your workflow as possible.
Let AI do the bulk of the work and then use your expertise to polish it. It’s the smart way to get things done—quickly and effectively. AI can get you 80% of the way there for many tasks. That’s often enough; for the rest, you can jump in and fine-tune.
Specific tasks now exist where using AI isn’t optional—it’s essential. Just like no one builds a business today without the internet, you can’t afford to ignore AI when coding, writing, or designing. It’s no longer a futuristic option. It’s a current requirement.
Adopt a realistic mindset. Don’t be a pessimist who fears AI or an optimist who thinks it’ll solve everything. Be grounded. Acknowledge the opportunities and move forward with urgency and practicality.
Like the internet once was, AI is a significant shift. It’s not going away. You can either adapt now or play catch-up later. There’s more opportunity than ever to build, learn, and create.
AI levels the playing field. You don’t need funding or connections to start building. You need curiosity and a willingness to experiment. Access to powerful tools and information is no longer locked behind walls of privilege.
Try using AI in new ways. Voice conversations with tools like Grok can be game-changers. You’re no longer just typing prompts; you’re having actual dialogues, which can open up new possibilities for creative thinking and fast problem-solving.
Most people don’t realize how widespread AI is already because it’s invisible. Unlike social media, AI use doesn’t show up in public. But soon, physical AI—like humanoid robots—will change that. It’ll be everywhere and undeniable.
And finally, AI is evolving much faster than people expect. You’re in for a surprise if you think we’ve got twenty years before it changes everything. It’s coming faster than you think. The time to act isn’t tomorrow. It’s right now.