7 Ways Humans can find Meaning when Robots take over


 Robots and automation are going to take over or replace a lot of the jobs. We are constantly hearing this phrase all the time, but the more pertinent question is how humans will find meaning in life. On the other hand, AI is rapidly transforming industries, from healthcare and transportation to finance and entertainment. On the positive side, AI has the potential to save lives. For instance, in healthcare, AI-powered diagnostic tools are improving the accuracy of detecting diseases like cancer. Similarly, self-driving cars, if implemented effectively, could significantly reduce road accidents and fatalities. Machine learning models are helping to predict natural disasters and optimize supply chains, bringing efficiency and safety.

However, with this transformation comes the challenge of displacement. Jobs involving repetitive tasks, such as manufacturing or even basic data analysis, are at risk of automation. This shift means that future jobs will likely demand higher emotional intelligence, creativity, and strategic thinking—areas where humans excel. Creativity, empathy, and ethical decision-making will become more valuable. As per Eric Schmidt the speed at which AI is scaling is stupendous and might be unmanageable for people. This is scary and he also makes a point along with Henry Kessinger that it is not only tech leaders who should be allowed to make decisions on the future impact of AI. I totally agree with that assessment.

As Daniel Pink wrote in A Whole New Mind, right-brain thinkers will dominate the future because creativity and innovation will be the key to success. Likewise, Geoff Colvin, in Humans Are Underrated, emphasizes that the ability to connect, empathize, and inspire will define human value in an AI-driven world.

The reality is that AI and robots may take over some jobs, but they can also augment our abilities, allowing us to focus on more meaningful work. The challenge is to ensure that technology serves us and doesn’t become our master. Let’s use these advances to enrich our lives, not to control them.

Just for a moment, think if a lot of our jobs are taken away and even if we are provided universal basic income as it is being proposed (hotly debated, of course), we will still have a lot of free time. The only way to be happy in those circumstances will be to find the real meaning of life. Here, I have expanded each letter of the word meaning to see how we can handle ourselves amidst the tsunami of disruption.

Mastery

The constant challenge to upgrade ourselves is a must. We should always be looking out to learn new things, adapt ourselves to current trends, and even be prepared to change careers if required. The main point is that we need to master skills that are valuable skills that only humans can perform. For example, the ability to sell will never become obsolete, even in 2025 or 2035. Moving people at a visceral level cannot be done by robots. So, you can develop your sales skills. You can also develop soft skills, which may well be in demand more than just technical skills. Learning complex skills will also hold us in good stead. The point is to master key skills that will stand you in good stead going forward.

In 21 Lessons for the 21st Century, Yuval Noah Harari says many pedagogical experts argue that schools should move to teaching the four C’s—critical thinking, communication, collaboration, and creativity. Thinking about how to attain mastery is the key moving forward.

Enthusiasm

You can only find meaning in life if you are totally enthusiastic about your life. Get excited about your life. Just think of it as an opportunity to experience this world as it is. A lot of people don’t get that opportunity. Make the most of the time available. Get excited about every day, as in one of my articles I mentioned every day is indeed the best day of your life. This Steve Jobs quote nails it: “Remembering you are going to die one day is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart.”

Attitude

Your attitude towards everything in your life will play a greater role going forward. You need to develop coping skills to view the world through a prism of abundance. Keep looking at the brighter side of your life. Your attitude is the true barometer of how you experience your life. Turn every setback into steppingstones and convert every negative into a positive. Your perception of the realities of your life will determine how you experience your life. We have all experienced a number of tumultuous years, and navigating through turbulent times would require a great attitude. As Carol Dweck says a growth mindset is the best way we can navigate change and remember our results are improved with increased effort.

Never Say Die

This is the spirit that is needed to survive the turbulence which is forthcoming. We need to develop what Angela Duckworth calls grit. It is passion and perseverance towards long term goals. Real enthusiasm for whatever we do for a living. Develop your resilience muscles by defining a clear mission statement for your life, setting goals, contributing to society, and pouring your love into everyone around you. Nothing can put a good person down.

Fuel Your Inspiration

These are the times we really need to stay inspired about our lives and really understand what we want to stand for. There are many avenues that can help us bring our best to the forefront. However, in order to bring your best, you need to be inspired. You can inspire others, or even members of your family, only if you are inspired. Some ideas to stay inspired are exercise, writing in a journal, reading inspirational books, listening to something motivational, and staying connected with people you truly adore.

Never Stop Innovating

Innovation means always looking to improve the current realities. It is about challenging the status quo. It doesn’t have to be completely original. Apple didn’t invent the MP3 player, but they made sure they focused on breakthrough design with deep empathy for the customer, providing the most innovative design. One book that can help here is Originals by Adam Grant. It is a wonderful book on the subject of innovation.

Goals

Meaning can be derived through goals. Once you define your personal mission statement, you need to break it down into achievable goals to fulfill your ultimate purpose. Set goals in all areas of your life, including personal, family, health, financial, educational, and community. This will give a great sense of purpose and fulfillment. Your dreams need focus, and that’s where goals can help.

There you have it: all the ways you can make the most of your life and ensure you live life to the fullest. Robots or AI may take over some of our jobs, but let’s make sure they don’t take over our lives. Thanks for reading this post.

The views expressed here are my own and do not represent my organization.

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