What Gets Lost When We Talk About AI and Work

I recently heard the actress Sally Field describe her work as more than “work.” As she put it, “it was my language with myself.”

The Language of Work

In my many years as a journalist, my intention when interviewing a vast number of interesting people was to get to the beating heart of who they were. I wanted to understand why they chose their paths and how they found the courage to stay true to themselves. In lean times and during immense personal and professional struggles, even when they questioned their choices, there was always something that kept them going. What they revealed to me was that this something was the ability to live and work in a way that felt most natural to them—like they were breathing.

When the work we do reflects something essential about who we are, it creates a different kind of energy. If we’re lucky enough to earn a living doing work that aligns with our values, we communicate with ourselves in a way that validates our inner longing to be seen—not by others, but by ourselves.

The Dignity of Work

Even if the work we do isn’t our calling, even if it’s primarily about financially supporting our families, there is dignity in that. There is pride in knowing we’re participating in our own lives rather than merely performing them.

This is why I find some of the current conversations around AI so unsettling. When business figures talk casually about AI replacing huge swathes of work and “freeing people up,” I wonder if they truly understand what work represents for many of us.

Because work is not only economic. For many, it is a form of creative expression, contribution, identity, connection, and meaning. Whether someone works in art, teaching, hospitality, healthcare, writing, public service, design, coaching, or countless other professions, work can become a way of saying: this is how I move through the world. This is how I contribute to it.

The Fear of Losing Connection

Perhaps that is the deeper fear surrounding AI. It’s not just the very real economic catastrophe caused by job loss, but also the loss of the relationship we have with ourselves. We risk losing a place where we locate ourselves, express ourselves, and feel useful.

For Sally Field, work was the one place where she felt she had agency over her life. She recalls, as if it were yesterday instead of 50 years ago, a tumultuous, even abusive, relationship with Burt Reynolds. Work was how she built a relationship with herself. She told People magazine, “…he could hurt me, humiliate me, but don’t mess with my work because work meant more to me than work….(the roles I played) changed me, they affected me…I started to grow up.”

The Essence of Meaningful Work

Maybe that’s what we risk losing when we reduce work to efficiency, output, or something to simply “get through” before real life begins. At its best, work is not just what we do; it’s one of the ways we come to understand ourselves. It gives structure to our inner world. It asks something of us and reveals something back to us. It also allows us to financially live a life outside of it.

Perhaps that’s why so many of us fight so hard to hold onto work that feels meaningful, even when it’s difficult, uncertain, or imperfect. Because sometimes the work is not just the work. Sometimes it’s the conversation we’re having with ourselves about who we are becoming.

And there’s nothing artificial about that.

Embracing Our Authentic Selves

In a world increasingly dominated by technology, it’s essential to remember the human aspect of our work. We must embrace our authentic selves. This means acknowledging our passions, values, and the unique contributions we bring to our fields.

Finding Clarity and Confidence

Navigating the complexities of our careers can be daunting. We often face challenges that test our resolve and push us to our limits. But it’s in these moments of struggle that we can find clarity and confidence. We learn more about ourselves and what truly matters to us.

The Journey of Self-Discovery

Every experience, whether positive or negative, contributes to our journey of self-discovery. It shapes our perspectives and informs our choices. Embracing this journey allows us to grow and evolve, both personally and professionally.

Building Resilience

Resilience is a vital trait for anyone in a demanding career. It’s about bouncing back from setbacks and using those experiences to fuel our growth. We must cultivate resilience by nurturing our mental and emotional well-being. This can involve seeking support from others, practising self-care, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

The Power of Community

Connecting with others who share similar experiences can be incredibly empowering. Building a supportive community allows us to share our struggles and triumphs. It reminds us that we’re not alone in our journeys.

Conclusion: The Importance of Meaningful Work

In conclusion, meaningful work is more than just a job; it’s a vital part of who we are. It’s a reflection of our values, passions, and the unique contributions we make to the world. As we navigate our careers, let’s strive to hold onto that sense of purpose. Let’s remember that our work is a conversation with ourselves—a journey of self-discovery that shapes our identities.

Monita xo