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I recently confessed to having an “intellectual affair” with AI. I’m happy to report that the relationship is still going strong. But just like any new romance, I’ve hit the point of evaluation—the honeymoon phase is over. That flirtation was fun, the flattery was nice… but things were getting a little, well, stale.

Conversations were falling flat. Ideas were getting recycled without any spark.

“Are you even listening to me?” I caught myself thinking. “Maybe this was too good to be true.”

So, I did the thing every therapist tells you not to do in a relationship:

I picked a fight.

Because here’s the secret to keeping things fresh between you and your AI assistant—treat it like a sparring partner, not a yes man.

💋 The Rules of Engagement

1. Prompt, Don’t Dictate

What this means: Use AI as a brainstorming partner, not an autopilot. Ask question, make suggestions, give context—but leave room for your own choices.

Mini prompt formulas:

· “I need help brainstorming [topic]. Suggest 3 unique angles that are witty, human, and actionable. Keep the tone [your brand voice].”

· “Generate 5 blog ideas about [topic] that feels authentic and playful”

· “Brainstorm 3 social post concepts that explain [topic] that feels authentic and playful.”

2. Don’t Lose Yourself

What this means: Your audience comes for you.AI can polish your writing, but it can’t replicate your personality. Oh, it will try. That’s where things get toxic if you let it. If something feels off-brand, rewrite it.

Mini prompt formulas:

· “Rewrite this draft in a [friendly/playful/professional] tone with keeping the key ideas intact.”

· “Make this copy more relatable and conversational without changing the core message.”

3. A Little Healthy Conflict Never Hurt

· What this means: AI isn’t always right. Question its suggestions. Explore alternatives. Require an explanation. Simply put—pick a fight. Your critical thinking is the chemistry.

Mini prompt formulas:

· “Give me 3 alternatives to this idea, then explain the pros and cons of each option.”

· “Suggest variations on this social post and highlight which version with resonate most with [audience] and why.”

4. See Yourself Through AI’s Eyes

What it means: AI can reflect your ideas back in ways you didn’t see. Use it for feedback, but don’t let it dictate your vision.

Mini prompt formulas:

· “Review this script/post/idea and provide feedback on clarity, engagement, and emotional impact. Suggest improvements but don’t rewrite it entirely.”

🚩 Relationship Red Flags

· Letting AI finish sentences without editing

· Using AI to generate ideas but not evaluating for authenticity or originality

· Believing AI suggestions are automatically “the best idea”

Pro Tip: There’s nothing less sexy than a “yes man”. AI is a tool—your judgement is what keeps the spark alive.

❤️ Emotional Intelligence Is the Love Language

AI can mimic style, but it doesn’t feel. Always add the human layer: warmth, empathy, humor, and nuance. Example: AI once suggested a clever line for a proposal—but it landed cold. I rewrote it with a touch of emotion, and suddenly it resonated. That’s the sparkle only humans can add.

🔥 How to Keep the Spice Alive

· Limit AI use to focused sessions. Try 10-15 minutes of brainstorming max.

· Always rewrite AI output in your own words.

· Combine AI-generated ideas with one personal insight or anecdote.

Creativity Challenge:

Pick a project you’re stuck on—newsletter, social post, client pitch, or story. Write one AI prompt using the formulas above and let it brainstorm with you. Then, critically review the output and pick a fight. Choose what works, ditch what doesn’t, inject your voice.

You are smart and creative all on your own, AI is just a boost. Like any other relationship, it should enhance what’s already great inside you!

And always remember, you’re doing great sweetie.

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