That we humans are not machines.
We are not wired to hit 150% productivity levels at all times. We are wired to sleep deeply each night, to allow our mind to cleanse itself and regenerate and create space for creativity and innovation to flow in.
We are wired to sit with fellow humans in groups and chat — and through that fellowship and calming community atmosphere, we spark innovation and new ideas that may just help the world.
Of course, as Alvin Toffler told us, we need to learn and unlearn and relearn our skillset to adapt to new technology and the ever-clanging wheel of change. And AI offers tremendous new advances to equip us humans.
But as we move deeper into this brave new world, I’m reminding myself to not fall into the trap of comparing myself to machines. To avoid functioning at warp speed for prolonged periods of time.
To remember to deeply honor the humanity in myself and others. And to take time intentionally each day to slow down, sit back, unplug.
And breathe.
P.S. This is coming from someone who in her 20s set up an arts collective called The Tyrrell Corporation in Hong Kong. It was based on my maiden name and the fact Sir Run Run Shaw produced Bladerunner. Our motto was “more human than human.” The irony of me now writing this post 20 years later isn’t lost on me.
How are you adapting to your ever-changing world?
Photo credit: My great friend Alison, and her daughter Esme, in the South China Sea, courtesy of the mother.
Associated dance track: Turn On, Tune In, and Cop Out, Freakpower, 1993