Thinking about thinking

Recently, I’ve spent a lot of time trying to figure out which skills will be the most important five or ten years from now.

I imagine as AI continues to proliferate in new areas of our lives, we will be able to do many things without giving them much thought.

And that’s my worry - we become too dependent on AI to do difficult things and lose our ability to think critically.

I’m already seeing that happen:

• In my experience in the marketing industry over the last few years, the quality of work has dipped as AI-created content is submitted without too much thought or editing.

• Content (especially copy-based content) is starting to feel and sound the same, especially on platforms like Medium and LinkedIn.

To operate AI successfully, critical thinking is required. Not just in crafting a prompt (which is available all over the internet) but ensuring the final output adds value or delivers a successful outcome.

With this in mind, I need to rethink how I use AI without compromising my ability to think critically.

Thinking critically is a muscle. The more you use it, the better it becomes.

While today’s episode is focused on the skill of critical thinking, the other two skills I feel will be important in the future are communication skills (I believe there will a push for more analog and face-to-face interactions) and creative skills (to stand out amongst AI-created content).

Today’s Prompts

Prompts for reflection

Imagine a world where AI or robots handle 90% of humans' work. What skills or mindsets would still be essential for success? How can you cultivate them?

What about the future scares you the most, and why? What steps can you take to address your fear?

What is one future trend you feel optimistic about, and how could it impact your life?

What skills or traits will become obsolete in the next 20 years? How do you feel about that?

Quote of the day

"What you do today can improve all your tomorrows." – Ralph Marston

4 - The 'If you don’t have time’ Prompt

What technology or trend are you curious about but don’t fully understand yet? Why?

Get the most out of your journalling:

• Choose one prompt: Focus on just one prompt each day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

• Be brutally honest: Reflect openly and honestly. This is your safe space to explore your thoughts and feelings.

• Take your time: Sometimes it takes a few days to clarify your thinking. Here’s permission for you to take your time to unravel a prompt and not take on any new ones during that time.

• Journal your way: Whether you prefer writing, audio recording, or video, choose the method that suits you best.

• Don't stress about streaks: If you miss a day, don't worry. You can always revisit a previous prompt.

I’d love your feedback

What was your favourite prompt of the day? Is there any specific challenge you want prompts for? How can I improve the content of the newsletter? Reply this mail and let me know!