Over the past few months, many people have told me they are using AI to help craft communications such as:
- Messages to people they matched with on dating apps
- Thank you cards
- Work emails
- Texts to friends and family
There are clear benefits to using AI in these scenarios. AI can help you find the right words and set the appropriate tone. For many, it’s like having a supportive coach in your pocket, ready to help you communicate more effectively. In fact, AI typically produces something close to what clients and I arrive at when writing conversation scripts together in session using just our brains. While AI generated scripts are impressive, we don’t live in a world where all our interactions are digital. You still have to know how to communicate effectively, in real time, and face to face when:
- You go on a date with that person you met on the dating app
- Your friend or partner tells you they received devastating news
- Your boss calls you into their office to talk about your performance
While AI can be a helpful tool, it’s important to recognize the risks of relying on it too much. Over-dependence on AI can hamper the development of your own communication skills and can sometimes lead to messages that feel less authentic or personal. In face-to-face situations, you won’t have AI to guide you, and being able to express yourself confidently and genuinely is essential.
As you experiment with using AI to help you craft effective communications, I encourage you to use it as a tool, not a crutch. Be honest with yourself. If you are becoming dependent on ChatGPT to help you through all your difficult conversations, challenge yourself to write some messages or have conversations without AI assistance. Practice expressing your thoughts and feelings in your own words, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – each one is an opportunity to learn and grow.
In summary, AI can be a helpful assistant, but developing your own communication skills is essential for authentic and confident interactions both online and in person.
Interested in building your communication skills with the support of a therapist? I specialize in helping high-performing adults work with their anxiety, stress, and perfectionism and lean into meaningful, values driven-lives. Schedule a free consultation to see if we are a good match.
This blog post isn’t intended as professional counseling or clinical advice. If you’re in need of support, please consider speaking to a professional to be evaluated.