Unlocking the Future: Guy Kawasaki's Take on AI and Human Potential
Discover how Guy Kawasaki leverages AI to enhance creativity, drive growth, and redefine success in the modern world.
In this episode of Redefining Work, I'm honored to welcome Guy Kawasaki, chief evangelist at Canva and author of “Think Remarkable.” With decades of experience at the forefront of technology, Guy provides an enlightening perspective on today's tech landscape. Our discussion delves into the transformative power of generative AI, its integration into his daily life, and the essential roles of growth and grit in achieving remarkable success.
You can also listen/share the episode directly syndicated on any of these channels: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube
Guy's illustrious career spans roles such as software evangelist for Apple, founder of a Macintosh database company, and advisor to numerous businesses. Interestingly, his motivation stemmed from humble beginnings. “When I was young, I didn't want to live in a place where you get robbed on the bus, and I wanted to drive a Porsche,” he recalls. His story underscores a critical point: the source of your motivation is less important than the motivation itself.
Tune in to gain insights from Guy’s innovative mindset and learn how to navigate an unpredictable future while making a positive impact through your work.
Embrace AI as a Learning Opportunity
Guy is a staunch advocate for embracing new technologies, asserting that AI is a more significant game changer than even the personal computer or the Industrial Revolution. He highlights the rapid adoption of tools like ChatGPT by everyday users as evidence of AI’s profound impact.
“AI is a bigger deal than the personal computer — maybe the Industrial Revolution.”
Leading by example, Guy incorporates AI tools into his daily work. “I use it as a research assistant. It helps me find examples,” he says, citing how AI helped him discover Julia Child’s career shift from a spy to a chef.
This practical application of AI extends to writing, research, and customer service tasks. Guy warns that failing to adopt these tools could severely hinder your career. “If you don't, you are going to be hurting, and you are going to be so far behind,” he cautions.
Pursue Growth and Grit
Guy believes that everyone has the potential to be remarkable by making a difference and improving the world. He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and resilience. “I define ‘remarkable’ as making a difference and making the world a better place,” he says. Achieving this requires a growth mindset and grit.
Drawing on the research of psychologists like Carol Dweck and Angela Duckworth, Guy explains, “If you want to be remarkable, you have to have a growth mindset. You have to believe that you can change, you can learn new skills.”
He adds that grit is essential for growth, noting, “Growing is hard. By definition, if you're growing, you're pushing the edge, and so you need grit.” He acknowledges that developing grit involves persevering through challenges, not just easy successes.
By continuously pushing your boundaries and striving for improvement, you can create a remarkable impact in your work.
Unleash Your Creative Mind
Guy’s reputation for creative and innovative uses of AI extends to both his professional and personal life. One notable innovation is “KawasakiGPT,” an AI model trained on his writings to provide answers and information as if it were Guy himself. “Now when people ask me for forwards or blurbs or guest essays, I start with KawasakiGPT,” he shares.
He also encourages creative applications of AI, such as responding to customer reviews with AI-generated poetry. “Imagine a small business owner, a restaurant owner, responding to Yelp reviews with poetry and rap. It’ll set you apart,” he suggests.
Guy's experimental approach to AI offers an inspiring example of leveraging new technologies in innovative ways, moving beyond theoretical discussions to practical, impactful applications.
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Join us to see the world through Guy's innovative lens and learn how to harness the power of AI, pursue growth with grit, and unleash your creative potential.
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