The Impact of AI on Progress
Unveiling the Transformative Forces: Navigating Personal Insights, AI Layoffs, and Startups in the Era of Progress and Innovation
In November 2023, I participated in a virtual workshop titled "5 Steps to Becoming an AI Empowered Leader." Even though I wasn't interested in artificial intelligence then, I was curious to learn more about this Revolution and how it could impact me. The workshop was a transformative experience.
I remember taking notes on every new word and concept introduced, such as empathetic engineering, chain of thought, model selection, and more. The only term I was familiar with during the workshop was IKIGAI, a Japanese word that means "reason for being." I knew about it only through my endless Google searches on how to pursue my career dreams. While the workshop fueled my desire to delve into IKIGAI (pronounced “eye-ka-guy”), the question still lingered: "What does this have to do with AI and me?"
The recent surge in AI-related layoffs has sent fear through various industries. The concern stems from AI's ability to receive instructions, analyze information with tone and personality, devise solutions, and execute plans within minutes. Executives and workers alike struggle with uncertainties about the future of their professions.
As we entered the new year, major tech players—Google, Amazon, Twitch, and BlackRock—made headlines for laying off thousands. Some argue that these layoffs are strategic cost-saving measures (source). Notably, Google acknowledged laying off 30,000 employees, attributing it to the efficiency boost from their new AI tools.
Although AI solves many problems, we risk becoming overly reliant on AI to answer life's most essential questions rather than trusting our own experiences and beliefs. This reliance could compromise our originality and our mental well-being. As someone who has experienced ChatGPT, I believe it may eventually replace my job. However, investments in AI startups reveal a different story.
In the Series A funding rounds (a fundraising event businesses use to raise capital), biotech startup Aiolos Bio raised 245 Million, ReNAgade Therapeutics raised 300 Million, and Orbital Therapeutics received 270 Million (source). Perplexity AI is eyeing the creation of the next generative AI-powered Google search. After only one year, this company is at a $520 Million valuation in 2024 (source).
Their mission statements echo words like reimagine, overcome, combine, and 'fine-tuning a variety.'
These investors signal a broader vision of a future beyond AI and machine learning. Operating efficiency is commendable, but innovation is the bridge to the future. In the middle of the AI wave, old methodologies are fading, making room for a novel approach that assembles pieces into something new, intense, and worth pursuing.
It's crucial to acknowledge that AI can't replace the essence of humanity. While we can learn and incorporate AI into our daily lives, our unique thoughts and creative abilities are irreplaceable. OpenAI faces legal challenges for copyright issues, emphasizing the need to be innovative with existing resources.
Here are five ways you can grow professionally with AI:
Embrace Your Authenticity in Current Trends: It's not just about monitoring industry shifts but adding your unique perspective to find innovative solutions.
Technological Revolution, 80s Style: Imagine your business as an 80s newspaper entering the digital age. Blend nostalgia and modernity for a unique online experience.
Streamlined Excellence: Curate quotes and sayings to inspire and guide your thoughts.
Coaching Your Dreams to Reality: Elevate your teaching to coaching and embrace continuous growth towards your dreams.
Collaboration Beyond the Desk: Collaborate with coworkers by finding common interests and turning work into enjoyable experiences beyond typical catch-ups.
In navigating the AI revolution, embracing innovation is the key to professional growth. Learn from the AI wave, adapt, and pave the way for a future that's both revolutionary and rewarding.
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