How to Stay True to Yourself in the Chat GPT Era
Every day we are hearing more and more about Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the use of tools such as Chat GPT.
If you don't already know, Chat GPT is a language-processing tool driven by AI technology that allows you to have human-like conversations with an AI chatbot. People have started using Chat GPT to help them do things such as create wedding speeches, listen to summaries of books, draft emails, plan out travel itineraries, write academic essays, and even share advice related to mental health (not recommended), to name a few.
In a world where AI seems to be taking over, it’s that much more important for us to continue practicing using our brains, being creative, and reminding ourselves that we have the capability to be diverse, unique, and come up with new ideas despite having technology to lean on.
A first tip to staying true to yourself despite technology overload is to continue doing the things that bring you joy, such as engaging in the various hobbies and interests you might have collected throughout your life. To continue being yourself, keep crocheting that scarf in the middle of August, keep those houseplants thriving, continue meeting friends (online or in-person) for needed social time, take time to read a book outside in the sun, visit new places, or spend time with your beloved pets. These activities that don’t involve technology allow you to feel real, grounded, and joyful. Taking time for yourself and practicing self-care can lead to increased self-awareness, decreased stress and anxiety, and overall better relationships.
Another simple yet effective method of salvaging your creative side is to *put the phone down* and be more present with your surroundings. Check out of social media for a minute and enjoy the sun on your face, the company in front of you, or the work you need to do today. We see increasing difficulty in mental focus and attention due to distractions like that one device attached to your hand. If it's within reach, we'll probably reach for it. So leave it in a different room (if you can). Set timers or delete those pesky addictive apps completely if that helps you. Most importantly, only you are in control of the time and energy you dedicate to your phone. So only you are in charge or setting it aside and focusing on what you need to do on a certain day. Your friends, pets, colleagues, and your brain will all thank you for it.
Another method to remind us we are human is to get out of our comfort zone. One of the most amazing aspects of living in the city of Chicago is that we are surrounded by so many opportunities to use the creative sides of our brains. Our city has bicycles and scooters to rent in most neighborhoods, painting, ceramic, terrarium, and even rug-making classes, free yoga, movies, and music in the parks, a wonderful assortment of museums nearby, and even a growing group of friends who jump into Lake Michigan each Friday morning! So, get out there and try something different to spark those creative energies.
One final word of advice to take back that control for yourself: talk about it. Share your goal with others around you: your friends, your family, and your therapist. When we talk about our goals or intentions, we are more likely to follow through on completing them (think of it like spreading the accountability). So the more we talk about our goals and creative ideas, the closer we get to starting them, working on them, and then completing them. The same goes for staying imaginative and unique in this world of technology.
In summary, it’s okay to involve technological advances like AI in your daily life. They can be beneficial! But don’t forget to turn away from technology sometimes and remind yourself of the tangible, wonderful life you have right in front of you. If you need help finding a balance, life transitions counseling can help.
Aimee Fizor is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) at Perspective Psychology. She can be reached at 312.219.4707 or aimee@perspectivepsychchicago.com.