My work has taken me from software and technology consulting to a weekly talk show, media programs and a book. The tools have changed along the way. With AI, I have more ways to make things, and more reason to ask why I am making them.
It is easier to create another draft, page, message, clip or campaign. I feel the temptation to make more because the next item is easier to produce. I also know how much activity can accumulate before I stop to ask whether it is helping anyone.
The purpose still needs attention
A business can stay busy while losing sight of what it is trying to do. A publishing platform can produce frequently while giving people little reason to read or listen. Those are decisions about the work, even when a new tool makes production faster.
When I look at what we are building now, I ask whether it helps someone think more clearly and whether it deserves the time we are putting into it. I want to know if we are making it because it is useful or because the tool has made it easy to make.
Different parts of my work keep teaching me that lesson. CIO Talk Network has made me think about what makes a conversation worth someone’s attention. The Tricycle Way came from seeing what my pursuit of success was costing my family and me. With CTN AON, I have to ask whether the work helps the people it is meant for.
Each has a different purpose. But someone is still being asked to read, listen or give us their time. Making the next page or message faster does not tell me whether that person needs it.
Make the choice before making more
I want to be able to explain who a piece of work is for and why it matters before making more of it. I also want to be willing to stop when the only reason to continue is that production has become easy.
I still have to make that choice. Before adding another item, I need to look at the work already underway. Does it need more attention before I start something else?