Overcoming AI Anxiety by Becky L. Amble

Fear is a powerful emotion that can hold us back from exploring new opportunities. Just as some people suffer from cynophobia—an extreme fear of dogs—many experience a similar fear when it comes to AI. As we can overcome our fear of dogs, we can also learn to embrace AI as a valuable tool rather than something to be feared.

In my experience I have heard several people talk about AI being bad, scary or something negative. I know that is a real concern so I dedicated a chapter to that topic in my book “Mastering ChatGPT for Adults over 50”.

I was lucky that I personally didn’t have fear as a stumbling block. My first reaction was that I was going to have to learn something new and didn’t have time! That was after first hearing about ChatGPT and a few days later I was lucky enough to sit in an online demo. Well, that was all it took for me to get excited and see that I could use it as a tool to save time, save money, and even do a better job at work.

Even more exciting to me has been when I show people some simple uses for AI, they get excited and want to use it and try it for whatever they can think of. I talk to people about security too so they are not going into the AI world blindly.

In this article I’ll share some research on fear and solutions. These are ideas that were mine and from my good buddy ChatGPT. Feel free to share this with anyone who might be concerned about their use of AI.

Understanding AI Fear:

• Fear of the Unknown: AI is often perceived as a mysterious and complex technology that can lead to uncertainty and anxiety.
• Age and Profession Influence: Research indicates that fear of AI is more prevalent among older generations and those in traditional professions such as manufacturing or law, where the fear of job displacement is more pronounced.
• Misinformation and Myths: Sensationalized stories about AI taking over jobs or leading to dystopian futures can amplify fear and misunderstanding.

Overcoming the Fear:

• Education and Awareness: Understanding how AI works and its benefits can demystify the technology and reduce fear. Taking workshops or courses can provide valuable insights to AI.
• Hands-On Experience: Experimenting with AI tools can foster familiarity and confidence. Start with simple applications in daily tasks, such as using AI for scheduling or email management.
• Focus on Collaboration: AI is designed to support human capabilities, not replace them. Emphasizing collaboration between humans and AI can help alleviate fear and highlight its role as a supportive tool. And what many don’t know is that Human In The Loop, having a person engaged with AI use, is essential to using AI.

AI as a Tool, Not a Threat:

• Enhancing Productivity: AI can automate repetitive tasks, allowing anyone to focus on more creative and strategic work.
• Fostering Innovation: In fields like healthcare, AI is driving breakthroughs in research and treatment, demonstrating its potential for positive impact.
• Personal Growth: Embracing AI can lead to personal and professional development, enabling individuals to adapt to the changing job market.

If you are a bit of a research fiend like me, I’ve added some specific information that you might find interesting.

Research Insights:

Below is information on fear of AI based on age groups and professions:

1. Age Factors: Older generations (Baby Boomers and Gen X) often express more fear of AI due to less familiarity with technology and concerns about job displacement. Younger generations (Millennials and Gen Z) are generally more comfortable with AI, viewing it as an integral part of daily life and work.
2. Profession Factors: Traditional professions such as manufacturing, retail, and transportation often express concern about AI replacing jobs. Knowledge-based sectors like tech, finance, and healthcare tend to see AI as a tool for enhancement rather than a threat.
3. General Trends: AI Literacy: Lack of understanding and misconceptions about AI contribute significantly to fear. Media Influence: Negative portrayals of AI in media and entertainment can fuel anxiety. Cultural Factors: Societal attitudes towards technology can influence how people perceive and react to AI.

Conclusion:

Fear, whether it’s of dogs or AI, often stems from misunderstanding and lack of experience. By taking proactive steps to learn, engage, and collaborate with AI, we can overcome our fears and unlock the potential for innovation and growth. Embrace AI as a tool for the future, and don’t let fear hold you back from exploring the possibilities it offers.

Becky Amble has spent over 30 years leading organizations to grow and increase profits through cutting-edge marketing strategies, market information and future trends. In 2022 she dived into the world of AI and has written 3 books on the topic and is a frequent speaker on the topic.

She has worked as a general manager and Vice President in corporate America and been a consultant and factional marketing resource for Fortune 50 companies to micro businesses.?She has successfully navigated in over 30 different industries in the B2B space from med tech to professional service firms.?She is a bestselling author of over 15 books and numerous articles.?She continues to help her clients grow by deploying Artificial Intelligence, identifying market needs, demographic trends and crafting results-oriented business strategies.