In an AI-art group, I made the following post:
How do you deal with AI overwhelm?
There are so many AI tools coming out each week that I often feel overwhelmed trying to learn them all or like I'm falling behind if I haven't learned one I've heard is powerful. On top of comics, I also make films, write books, and podcast so I am trying to learn all the text, video, and audio AI tools. It's a lot.
At the same time, individual tools are so powerful, you could completely revolutionize your whole process with just one or do a whole comic just using Midjourney or Stable Diffiusion. Yet, I'm also trying to say up on them enough that I could do an AI-voiced audiobook, write social media, and eventually use AI generated video in film.
Still, it's a lot. How do you keep up?
I decided to ask AI how I should handle AI and put that post into ChatGPT-4 and asked it: “What advice would you give to the person who wrote this?”
ChatGPT-4’s Advice on AI Overwhelm
It's clear that you have a lot on your plate and are eager to stay up-to-date with AI tools. Here are a few tips to help you manage AI overwhelm:
Prioritize: Determine which AI tools are most relevant to your current projects and focus on learning those first. You don't need to master every tool that comes out—choose the ones that will have the most impact on your work.
Set realistic goals: Break down your learning goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Focus on mastering one tool at a time and give yourself a deadline to achieve proficiency in that tool.
Allocate dedicated time: Schedule specific time slots in your week to learn and experiment with AI tools. This way, you can stay focused on your other work without feeling guilty about not keeping up with AI advancements.
Join online communities: Connect with others who are interested in AI tools and applications. This can help you stay informed about the latest developments, share experiences, and learn from others. Online forums, social media groups, and even local meetups can be helpful.
Embrace collaboration: Partner with others who have expertise in different AI tools. By sharing your knowledge and resources, you can maximize your collective learning and application of these technologies.
Focus on the outcome: Remember that AI tools are meant to assist you in achieving your goals, not become a goal in themselves. Focus on how the tools can improve your work, rather than trying to become an expert in every new technology.
Accept that you can't keep up with everything: The pace of technology is rapid, and it's impossible to stay updated on every single development. Accept that you may miss some updates and focus on what you can realistically achieve.
By prioritizing, setting realistic goals, and making use of available resources, you can manage your time effectively and reduce AI overwhelm. Remember that your primary goal is to create great content in your various fields, and AI tools are there to support and enhance your work.
I probed further:
What advice would you give to a person who has executive dysfunction, ADHD, or another form of neurodivergence that makes it challenging to implement this advice? Assume they also have other responsibilities like a job and family that take significant amounts of their time and they get tired easily.
ChatGPT-4’s Advice on Neurodivergence
anaging executive dysfunction, ADHD, or other forms of neurodivergence can indeed add extra challenges when trying to learn and implement new tools. Here are some strategies that might help:
Break tasks into smaller steps: Divide your learning goals into smaller, more manageable tasks. This can make it easier to start and maintain momentum.
Use a timer: Implement the Pomodoro Technique or another time management system to help you focus on tasks for short periods, followed by short breaks. This can help maintain concentration and prevent burnout.
Create routines: Establish a daily or weekly routine to work on your AI learning goals. Consistency can help in forming habits and making it easier to stay on track.
Use visual aids: Make use of visual tools like calendars, checklists, or kanban boards to help you visualize your goals and track your progress.
Leverage reminders and alarms: Use technology to help you stay on task. Set reminders or alarms to remind you of your learning goals and designated time slots.
Seek support: Share your goals with friends, family, or mentors who can provide encouragement, accountability, and assistance when needed.
Use assistive technology: Explore tools and apps designed specifically for individuals with ADHD or executive dysfunction. These can help with organization, time management, and focus.
Prioritize self-care: Ensure you're taking care of your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, exercise, and maintain a balanced diet. This can improve your overall ability to focus and manage your responsibilities.
Be kind to yourself: Acknowledge that you might face unique challenges and that it's okay to take longer to learn or implement new tools. Recognize your achievements and progress, even if it's slower than you'd like.
Consider professional guidance: If you're struggling with managing your neurodivergence, seeking help from a therapist, coach, or support group specializing in ADHD or executive dysfunction can provide valuable insights and strategies tailored to your specific needs.
By adapting your approach to learning and implementing new tools, you can work around the challenges posed by executive dysfunction, ADHD, or other forms of neurodivergence. Remember that progress may be slower, but that's perfectly okay. The key is to find strategies that work for you and be patient with yourself.
P.S. I am looking for more AI-groups, especially when it comes to AI-film. If you’re in one, send me an invite.