Why your brain matters more than ever in the AI age

As artificial intelligence models advance, it's essential to focus on developing our own critical thinking skills, which make us unique as humans. Critical thinking involves questioning, interpretation, and discernment, and it can be taught. A recent study found that leaders with strong critical thinking skills have better outcomes, such as confidence in their ability to lead and lower burnout. Humans tend to rely on mental shortcuts and autopilot mode, which can be exacerbated by AI, leading to cognitive laziness. AI can process vast amounts of information quickly, but it can also make us overtrust automated answers and neglect our own thinking. Critical thinking is crucial in the age of AI, as it helps leaders evaluate situations objectively and make informed decisions. Leaders who don't think critically are more likely to struggle with confirmation bias, over-rely on AI, and experience cognitive failures. On the other hand, strong critical thinkers have a better experience as leaders, with higher job satisfaction and lower burnout. Critical thinking can be developed by intentionally rewiring our relationship with thinking, practicing self-reflection, and using AI as a thinking partner. By cultivating critical thinking, we can stay alert and grounded in what makes us uniquely human.