ChatGPT Is Stealing My Job

Hi, I’m Sarah. I’m our copywriter here at Bright Light. I write blogs and social posts and ebooks and courses and a thousand things in between. And then ChatGPT showed up, and it writes a thousand things too. Well, shit.

All of a sudden, I’m facing an existential dilemma: am I only as valuable as an AI website? If something else (not even someone) can write clearly and quickly, does that render me  irrelevant? DO I EVEN MATTER? 

*calming breaths*

Yes, of course I matter. Of course people matter. But knowing that doesn’t help us know what to do when our primary function is replaced by AI. 

If I played the flute and new technology could help me play the flute better, would I be threatened? No. I’d still be the one playing the flute. Even if I use technology to help my writing journey, I’m still needed. Here’s why:

I’m a Human

We can quickly dismiss the value of a human in the face of projected efficiency. We try to defend our value by saying “but ChatGPT can’t…” that’s quickly retorted with “Yeah, but it can do that…” Here’s the harsh truth: when it comes to writing, ChatGPT can do a lot of what I do. (I swear, even typing that hurts my feelings.)

Why does that hurt so? Here’s my take: because we have confused our value with our tasks, we have misaligned our identity with our output. Computers have taken over a myriad of tasks since their inception; that’s their function. This one hits different because writing is a creative task, but it really is the history of technological advancement on repeat: automating that which can be automated. 

Let’s circle back: I’m human. 

Humans are made for connection and are necessary to connection. Even when tasks can become more efficient, there are some elements that can’t be reduced to AI. Conversation, understanding, and nuance are all irreplaceably human elements. Knowing an audience, gathering feedback, adding flavour — those are all things it takes someone living and breathing in the world to assess. Someone who is having conversations, not just spitting out content. Someone who is listening and learning… And then usually asking Chat GPT better questions.

What They Said 

But why just listen to me? Here’s what ChatGPT had to say: 

As an AI language model, ChatGPT has the potential to be a useful tool for writers. However, there are also some risks to be aware of.

One potential risk is that writers may become overly reliant on ChatGPT to generate ideas or even entire pieces of writing. While ChatGPT can be a great source of inspiration and help with writer's block, it's important to remember that it is not a substitute for your own creativity and originality. Relying too heavily on AI-generated content could lead to a lack of personal style and voice in your writing.

Another risk is that ChatGPT may not always produce accurate or reliable information. As an AI language model, ChatGPT has access to a vast amount of information, but it may not always be able to discern between fact and fiction or provide the most up-to-date information. It's important for writers to fact-check and verify any information they get from ChatGPT before including it in their writing.

Lastly, there is also a risk of over-reliance on technology in general, which can lead to a lack of critical thinking skills and a diminished ability to communicate effectively with others. It's important for writers to remember that technology is just a tool and not a substitute for human connection and communication.

And I’m Not Scared 

Honestly, as a writer, half of the work is putting in the time: being at the keyboard typing, trying, editing, adjusting, growling, rewriting, and sending. If ChatGPT can shorten that process, give me a base to work off of, and start with something, I’m not upset. I’m all for tools that help! How many other advancements in technology were met with skepticism? Most!1 But how many are now central to life? Most! 

I’m certainly not scared. The world is more automated, sure, but that gives me more time to finesse, more work done in less time, more support. I am still going to be the one who makes it human, who breathes life into it, who adds flair, fun, and function. Sure, ChatGPT will get better at that, but so will I. If a little online support allows me to live a little more, and do a little better, then I’m all for it. 

Sarah Whyte is Bright Light Content’s Copywriter and Brand Strategist. She’s a quick talking, avid reader who delights in noticing big truths in everyday places.

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