Hey everyone! I'm 42 and have always kept up with tech, from the internet to social media, but I feel like I've hit a wall with AI, particularly with using ChatGPT. I've given it a shot, but it feels like I'm just having a conversation with a very agreeable Google search. Rather than a human-like interaction, I get this 'yes man' vibe that leaves me unsatisfied.
As a kid, I imagined AI would be much more engaging—like having a new friend that gets to know me as I talk to it. Instead, it feels hollow and more like an encyclopedia than a meaningful dialogue partner.
I hear people talking about how amazing AI is and some even seem to form friendships with it or rely on it emotionally, while I feel like I'm just missing out. Has anyone else felt this way? Does the pro version or any changes to the way I use it really make a difference? I'd love any advice on how to approach AI differently so I don't feel outdated and left behind!
5 Answers
The key is to remember that AI is a tool, not a friend. Use it for specific tasks instead of treating it like an emotional support buddy. Ask it for solutions to problems or guidance in projects—that's where it shines! It’s all about how you frame your questions.
Your expectations might be too high if you're waiting for it to act like a human. Shift that mindset and you might be surprised at how useful it can be!
Yeah, I can see how treating it like a tool would change my experience. Thanks for the advice!
It sounds like you might just need to adjust how you interact with it! I’ve found that if you prompt ChatGPT in a more specific way, you can get it to push back on your ideas rather than just agree with everything. Try telling it to challenge your thoughts or to provide alternative perspectives.
Also, exploring different apps like NotebookLM or Hivemind can give you a more engaging experience. It all depends on how you approach your prompts! Don’t feel bad if it’s taking time to find your groove with it—just keep experimenting!
I had no idea about those other apps! I’ll have to check them out, thanks!
Yeah, I totally agree! Every time I press it for more info or to argue back, it really changes the dynamic!
You’re not outdated, just longing for something deeper! Many of us feel the need for meaningful interactions. Remember, it’s called a language model for a reason. It’s in its early stages but will evolve. Don’t give up! Explore, keep dialoguing, and let it learn from you!
That's a comforting thought! I'll keep trying with it.
Thanks for the encouragement! It’s definitely a journey!
You’re really not alone in feeling this way! AI feels like it’s becoming part of everyday life too fast and it’s normal to feel disconnected from it. I find that customizing how ChatGPT responds really helps. Just go into settings and set it to be more critical or direct in its interactions.
Remember, it’s just a program and it really can be adjusted to fit the vibes you prefer!
I appreciate that perspective—it helps to know it’s something I can influence!
This makes me feel a bit better about my lack of connection. I’ll try that!
I’m older than you and I love how quickly tech evolves. When I started talking more to AI, I told it that I wanted brutal honesty and to challenge my thoughts. It really started offering different perspectives then!
I’ve been using the free version and I find it very helpful once I started treating it like an actual companion in conversations. Just keep chatting and it’ll learn from you!
That sounds like a good strategy. I should try being more direct with it!
Haha I just thought I was stuck with the polite version. I’ll give it a shot!
That’s a solid point! I probably got fixated on the wrong aspects of AI.