AI and Us: Building a Future Where Technology Empowers, Not Overwhelms

By Kraig Kleeman

“As we stand on the precipice of a future where AI promises to run the marathon of our workload, one can’t help but wonder if it’s really just turning us into spectators of our own careers. But here’s the thing—no matter how fast AI runs, it’ll never cross the finish line with a story worth sharing or a lesson learned. The race isn’t just about speed; it’s about the journey, and that’s something only humans can truly appreciate.” — Erik Severinghaus

Introduction

Let’s discuss something that’s been on my mind a lot lately—the impact of AI on our jobs and, more importantly, on our mental health. While AI is revolutionizing the way we work, it’s also causing uncertainty and stress among employees across various sectors. And honestly, it’s a conversation we need to have more openly.

AI: A Blessing and a Curse

Imagine this: you’re at your desk and hear whispers about how AI could do your job faster, maybe even better. That’s the reality for many out there. On the one hand, AI is this incredible tool that’s making our lives easier, taking the grunt work off our plates so we can dive into more creative tasks. But then, there’s the flip side—a gnawing worry about whether there’s still a place for us in this new AI-driven world.

I’ve seen this anxiety first-hand among friends and colleagues. The rapid pace at which jobs are evolving or disappearing is unsettling. It’s like standing on shifting sands, not knowing when the ground beneath you might give way. And let me tell you, the mental toll is real. The constant stress over job security and the pressure to keep up with new skills can be overwhelming.

Let’s Talk About Mental Health

The conversation about AI often misses a crucial aspect: how it affects our well-being. The truth is that anxiety and depression are becoming more common as people worry about their future in the workplace. It’s something that hits close to home for many of us.

I remember chatting with a friend who works in finance, a sector heavily impacted by AI. He shared how the pressure to outperform an algorithm drained him, questioning his value. It was a wake-up call for me. We need to ensure technology uplifts rather than undermines our spirit.

Finding the Balance

So, what’s the game plan? At Bloomfilter, we’re big on finding a middle ground. It’s about harnessing AI to amplify our human strengths, not replace them.

  • Job Security: We’re all about using AI to make jobs more enriching, not redundant. Think of AI as a sidekick, not a replacement. By investing in our team’s growth and learning, we’re preparing them for tomorrow’s challenges.
  • Supportive Workplaces: We’re pushing for an environment where it’s okay to talk about the stress and anxiety of change. Resources like counseling and stress management workshops can make a difference.
  • Keeping the Human Touch: It’s about finding ways to let AI take the wheel on routine tasks so we can focus on what humans do best—connecting, empathizing, and innovating.

Looking Ahead

Embracing AI doesn’t mean losing our humanity. It’s a tool, and like any tool, how we use it matters. As we venture further into this AI-enhanced world, let’s ensure we’re advancing technologically and nurturing the human spirit.

The journey ahead is both exciting and daunting. But remember, behind every tech breakthrough, there are people with hopes, fears, and dreams. Our mission is to build a future where technology uplifts everyone, making our work lives more productive and fulfilling.

So, here’s to navigating the waves of change with empathy and resilience. After all, at the heart of every innovation, the human spirit truly makes a difference.

About Erik Severinghaus

Erik Severinghaus is a highly successful entrepreneur, author, and mountaineer. If his accomplishments and aspirations were to draw inspiration from natural icons, he could be described as a fusion of Mark Zuckerberg’s visionary approach to business and Tony Stark’s electrifying approach to saving humanity. He possesses keen business acumen and a flair for captivating customers, investors, and marketing partners.

Erik’s entrepreneurial spirit is boundless, as evidenced by his track record of founding, operating and exiting multiple ventures that have created a combined $600M in value. Erik’s investment skills are striking. He was a founding investor in Hyde Park Angels which recently helped ShipBob achieve unicorn status. He raised $6M startup capital for his newest venture, Bloomfilter, which is growing by triple digits, quarter over quarter.

As an endurance athlete, Erik has conquered some of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mt. Everest in 2018. In his public appearances, Erik is quick to discuss that learning to navigate through the valleys in his business life is what has led him to properly navigate the victories.