At Decoded, I facilitate sessions that help people understand the basics of AI. Over the past six months, I’ve noticed a significant shift in how learners perceive AI.

We begin our sessions by asking:

“What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you hear AI?”

A year ago, common responses included “fear” and the inevitable “Robocop” reference. However, in the past three months, I’ve seen “fear” been replaced by “excitement”, “curiosity”, and more precise answers like “automation.”

So, what’s changed?

Understanding AI: What are we really afraid of?

AI is simply about teaching computers how to think like humans: recognising patterns, solving problems, and making decisions. We see it manifest in our everyday functions such as:

– Netflix recommendations
– Spotify radio
– Facial recognition unlocking your phone

People weren’t actually afraid of AI as they’ve been using it for years on autopilot. The real fear has stemmed from the rapid acceleration of AI advancements, particularly with generative AI and the rise of ChatGPT.

Why has the fear faded?

AI makes life easier. People have learned how to integrate ChatGPT and other generative AI tools into their daily lives. Whether it’s planning meals, booking holidays, or checking your symptoms with DoctorGPT. AI now acts as a personal assistant, cutting through the noise of Google. Tools that have helped me are: Gamma, Beautiful AI, or the “Explore GPTs” section on ChatGPT”. My partner even designed my engagement ring using Mid journey and Synthesia helped David Beckham release his malaria campaign in 9 languages!

AI is becoming essential in the workplace. We’re finally expanding our understanding of machine learning, deep learning, and generative AI. Major companies now rely on AI agents: Salesforce uses AI-powered assistants via AgentForce, chatbots have become the norm in customer service, and Bloomberg has even built its own GPT. AI in business is not the future – it’s been around us for decades and is very much embedded in our present.

No one wants to be left behind. We’re no longer material girls livin’ in a material world – we’re digital girlies in a digital world. AI isn’t just a passing trend; it’s an active transformation happening now. People are realising that up-skilling is necessary to remain competitive in our careers.

Looking ahead

We still have a long way to go in adapting AI to our work lives and shaping how future generations will use it. It would be naive to think that all fear has disappeared, especially as automation continues to replace jobs. But rather than resisting it,

the key is: to understand how generative AI can make our roles easier.

By automating the repetitive parts of our roles, we create more space for the tasks that  benefit from human input. The ones that require creativity, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence.

Staying open minded to these changes is what will keep us relevant in an AI-driven world.

Thanks for reading. PS.

#IDidNotWriteThisUsingChatGPT