You Are Already Addicted to AI...So Now What?
I had a weird moment this week. I was about to write an email and felt genuinely uncomfortable doing it without AI help. That's when I realized - I was developing a dependency on something that didn't exist two years ago. If you've ever felt that twinge of discomfort when forced to use your brain, this newsletter is for you.
THREE things to think about:
Your brain's reward system can't tell the difference between essential needs (food/water) and technological shortcuts. Both trigger the same dopamine response, which is why tech companies hire psychologists to make their products addictive.
The time AI saves you isn't truly "free" if you spend it consuming more digital content. You've simply redirected your attention from creation to consumption.
As technology shrinks and neural interfaces become possible, the boundary between your thoughts and AI assistance will blur. Establishing healthy boundaries now is crucial.
TWO things to ask yourself:
Examine how you spend the time AI saves you. Are you redirecting it toward meaningful activities or just more screen time?
Consider which mental skills you're allowing to atrophy by outsourcing them to AI. Are these skills you might need in a crisis?
ONE thing to try this week:
Implement a daily "AI-free hour" where you tackle tasks using only your brain. Note how difficult certain activities feel without digital assistance and track whether this improves over time.
Ready to hear more about managing your relationship with AI? Check out the full episode at www.thefitmess.com.