Exploring Creativity in the Age of AI: A Conversation with ChatGPT
Listen to the Podcast episode on Spotify here
Like most people, I’ve been pretty impressed by the ChatGPT update where you can actually have a conversation with it. I tried to chat with Siri back in the day but gave up quickly as she was, well, very robotic, I suppose! (Despite a few good jokes!) This new ChatGPT even has weird voice imperfections and intonations—they really put in the effort to make it sound human! It appeared at the same time I was contemplating recording a podcast about creativity (and procrastinating the huge task, oui!). I’ve recorded a few episodes myself already but still felt like something was missing. Having an AI guest felt exciting and new enough for me to just do it. You either find it fascinating or terrifying, but damn, what a world we live in!
At a time when everyone is freaking out about AI and how it’s already impacting our jobs, culture, and life (and many things we don’t even realize yet, probably!), I thought inviting ChatGPT directly on my podcast to talk together about these issues seemed like the best idea ever (yes, just this). I knooow what you’re going to tell me: it’s not really generating ideas but mostly condensing everything it knows. But hey, still, I find the experience fascinating (and also quite ironic for sure). We dove into a discussion about creativity, the challenges facing creatives today, and how AI is impacting the industry.
ChatGPT as a Creative Collaborator
As we chatted, ChatGPT described itself as more of a tool or collaborator that can assist in generating ideas, refining concepts, and even helping to spark new ways of thinking. It’s not about creating something from a personal perspective but rather combining and presenting information in novel ways. This, in itself, can be a huge asset to human creators, allowing us to bring our visions to life with a little extra support. I know the reality is more complex than this, and that people who already have their jobs impacted by AI are probably rolling their eyes behind their brains, but I still think this was an interesting perspective! The AI itself is not describing itself as a creator, but as a tool. If people are using it to replace creativity, well, what is the AI’s responsibility in it? (Oh no, have I opened a Pandora’s box of existential questions with no answers?) This led us to:
The Fear of Being Replaced
One of the biggest concerns in the creative industry today is the fear of being replaced by AI. It’s a real worry, especially as technology continues to advance at breakneck speed. But as we discussed, AI isn’t necessarily here to replace us—it’s here to reshape how we approach creativity. Humans bring emotional depth, cultural context, and innovative thinking to the table—elements that AI simply can’t replicate. ChatGPT said it: at a time when everything is a big mash potato salad of everything that has ever existed, it’s more important than ever to be very original, so your unique vision is not easily replaceable.
What do I understand from this? The death of average: you can’t be an average designer or creative and just make a nice living doing something you love. I understand that exceptional talents are not going to be easily replaced, but what about the 99% of people who are actually making a living in the creative industry doing a nice job they enjoy without being excellent at it?
I find it very interesting, though, that ChatGPT reminds us that we need to focus on emotions and our humanity, as this is what makes us unique, and I consider this pretty solid advice! (Or a tricky way for us to feed it with our emotions :D)
Here’s a ChatGPT list of all the advice it shared for us creatives to adapt in this uncertain, fast-moving age:
Advice for Creatives: How to Adapt and Thrive
Cultivate Your Unique Voice and Style: AI can generate ideas, but it doesn’t have personal experiences or emotions. Lean into what makes your work distinctly yours.
Use AI as a Tool, Not a Competitor: See AI as an enhancement to your workflow, allowing you to explore new ideas and work more efficiently.
Focus on Creative Problem Solving and Critical Thinking: These are uniquely human strengths that will help you stay ahead in the evolving industry.
Embrace Collaboration: Whether with other creatives or AI tools, collaboration is key to innovation and growth.
Continuous Learning: Stay curious, adaptable, and committed to learning new skills and technologies.
Embracing Change
I mean, all of this was already super solid even before AI arrived, to be honest! We talked about how being our authentic selves was probably a good solution in this fast-changing world. I don’t want to add to the “just be yourself! be authentic!” noise, but I do understand its point. (And that’s also why I’m writing the blog articles in my own voice, adding some nuance and skepticism along the way—not counting my incredible sense of humor, of course). I want people to read what I think, not a very bland AI summary. But ChatGPT will absolutely fix all my spelling mistakes (remember, French person here!), and that is awesome. It is a direct application of assisting me, not replacing me.
When even an AI is telling me to "be my authentic self"
Using AI to Support What You Love
And it’s the perfect transition to our next point! How AI can actually help support the creative process by taking on tasks that might feel burdensome or draining. By using AI thoughtfully, we can free up more time and energy to focus on what we truly love doing. This approach not only prevents burnout but also allows us to amplify our strengths and stay true to our creative passions. I love writing but hate polishing the text. I love to create but suck at organizing my time. ChatGPT is saving my ass there. Take some time to reflect on what you LOVE doing but where you totally drop the ball. Can AI help you there? Wouh, awesome! Are some people going to hate writing blog posts and making photos and are going to replace this part of the job with AI, and as a consequence, creatives are going to lose some jobs? Absolutely! Is this fair? I don’t know!
Balancing Optimism with Critical Thinking
As much as I try to be optimistic about AI, the pace of change in the creative industry is overwhelming. In a world where everyone has access to the same tools and technology, what sets us apart is our unique perspective. But then again, I truly believe (I say believe—this is not Truth) that the world is what we think it is: If you think AI is exciting, you are going to take some decisions in this direction, experimenting and getting positive outcomes from it. If you think AI is terrifying, you are going to surround yourself with doom and despair of all the people who say on social media this is the end of the world. And the best part is, both of these people are equally right. But I have very limited energy, and I’d rather live on the side of opportunity, change, and future cool stuff! Also, it’s not about listening to everything AI has to give us without critical thinking—your opinion and last word will matter more than ever before. I suppose life is about balance! (But again, not my specialty :D)
Final Thoughts
Our chat with ChatGPT offered a lot of food for thought (and a few existential crisis). It’s clear that AI is both a challenge and an opportunity for creatives, pushing us to adapt and evolve in ways we might not have anticipated. But ultimately, it’s up to us to leverage these tools in a way that enhances our work while staying true to what makes us unique. If you want ideas and inspiration about what ChatGPT could do for you, I have gathered a list of 150 questions you can ask it, and you can download it here! It’s a resource designed with love to help you make the most of AI in your work.
Thanks for tuning in, and as always, I’m sending you plenty of love
Bisous Bisous!
(P.S.: ChatGPT actually replied to my “bisous bisous” in the podcast, and I lost it :D)
