Since the public introduction of large language models—models that can understand language and generate text—few topics have resonated more profoundly in public discourse than artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on our future world.
We are collectively grappling with the role AI will play in our society, while the pace of innovation accelerates and transformative tools continue to emerge. Amidst these discussions, we’ve pondered the future of work, not only for companies but, crucially, for the individuals who make up their workforce.
Yet, amidst these dialogues, there’s a facet of AI’s potential that has received insufficient attention—its ability to instill meaning and fulfillment in the workplace across diverse industries and for employees at all levels.
As we navigate this new era, it’s paramount to recognize that the true promise of AI extends beyond mere automation; it encompasses the profound impact AI can have on the human experience at work, the amplification of meaning, and the redefinition of purpose.
The Quest for Meaning and Purpose at Work
The pursuit of “meaning” and “fulfillment” at work has become a central theme for organizations worldwide over the past decade.
A study from McKinsey in 2022 showed that 70% of employees say their personal sense of purpose is defined by their work. Furthermore, a survey from the HR and recruitment platform, Monster.com, found that 70% of Gen-Z employees prioritize “purpose” over “pay” in their work-related priorities.
In essence, the significance of this issue continues to grow, and fortunately, the introduction of AI in our workplaces can transform these challenges into opportunities for personal and professional growth.
The Power of AI-powered Personalization
Consider, for instance, AI-powered personalization. We are entering an era where technology can anticipate our needs, curate content, and tailor experiences to match our individual preferences.
While the potential applications of this personalization are vast within the realm of work, what I find most compelling is AI’s remarkable capacity to acknowledge the individuality of employees in the workplace, fostering an environment where they can consistently bring their very best to the table.
When work tools understand us, and when they adapt to our styles and needs, they can help to foster a sense of recognition and value—a fundamental aspect of finding meaning at work.
Fostering Growth and Belonging Through AI-Powered Mentorship
The traditional workplace often demands we navigate complex organizational structures, decipher hierarchies, and negotiate politics. AI has the potential to be our guide in this labyrinth. It can analyze patterns in our interactions, offer recommendations for meaningful collaborations, and help us find mentors who resonate with our goals.
Imagine a world where AI helps you connect with the right mentor—the person who not only shares your professional aspirations but also aligns with your personal values.
Such partnerships don’t just foster skills; they foster a sense of belonging, growth, and shared purpose.
From Data Overload to Creative Freedom: AI’s Role in Redefining Purpose
AI’s power doesn’t stop at personalization or facilitating mentorship; it also extends to becoming our partner in the quest for knowledge and innovation. Rather than being overwhelmed by data, AI helps us navigate its vast expanse. Imagine a future where, instead of sifting through mountains of data, we can focus on generating creative ideas, solving complex problems, and fostering innovation.
It’s not about AI replacing our intellect or intuition; it’s about AI serving as the wind beneath our wings, amplifying our cognitive abilities, and liberating us to think more deeply and expansively. When we no longer fear being overwhelmed by data but instead embrace it as the raw material for innovation, we find a renewed sense of purpose in our work.
As AI takes on more routine tasks, it elevates the value of the human touch. In a world where technology is omnipresent, it’s the distinctly human attributes—empathy, creativity, emotional intelligence—that become our competitive advantage. AI doesn’t replace these qualities; it enhances them by freeing us from tasks that drain our energy and consume our time.
And when we’re liberated from the mundane, we can invest more in our relationships—with colleagues, customers, and ourselves. We have the bandwidth to be present, to engage meaningfully, and to cultivate a culture of trust and collaboration.
AI-Powered Solutions for Employee Well-Being
The pursuit of meaning and purpose at work is intricately linked with the well-being of employees. When employees experience optimal mental health and wellness, they are more likely to find themselves fully engaged and fulfilled in the workplace.
Conversely, when individuals in the workforce grapple with stress, overwork, and burnout, it often translates to a diminished sense of job satisfaction and a feeling of futility.
Thankfully, the application of artificial intelligence within the health and wellness domain opens up exciting possibilities for enhancing engagement and fulfillment at work.
AI applications focused on promoting employee well-being, such as monitoring stress levels, encouraging well-timed breaks, and offering mindfulness exercises, play a pivotal role in fostering a happier and more engaged workforce.
Moreover, AI-driven scheduling and workload management programs empower employees to strike a healthier balance between their professional and personal lives. This, in turn, contributes to increased job satisfaction, paving the way for a workplace where meaning and well-being go hand in hand.
AI’s True Power: Reigniting Purpose in the Workplace
All things considered, the true power of AI doesn’t lie in its ability to automate tasks; it lies in its capacity to rekindle our sense of purpose.
As we embrace AI and its integration into the workplace, we must remember that the best future is one where technology enhances our human experience, amplifies our potential, and opens doors to new horizons of meaning and purpose.
Because the era of AI isn’t about the removal of menial tasks but about the elevation of our human potential. It’s about the pursuit of work that enriches our lives, deepens our connections, and ignites our passion.
AI is not the endgame; it’s the beginning of a new chapter—a chapter where meaning and purpose in our work take center stage, and where the human spirit soars to new heights, powered by the remarkable synergy of man and machine.
Originally published on Thrive Global on October 9, 2023.
About the Author
Eric Berridge
CEO
Eric Berridge is a two-time author, TED speaker, and CEO of Coastal. He is the co-founder and former CEO of Bluewolf (acquired by IBM in 2016), a firm he built over two decades as the original and preeminent consultancy for Salesforce. Eric’s latest book, Customer Obsessed, redefines customer obsession for the tech era, and he continues to lead the conversation with other business leaders on the Customer Obsessed Podcast. He is an outspoken advocate for the arts and humanities, and his writing and speaking engagements focus on spreading awareness and support for the arts to improve education, creativity, and critical thinking to keep up with our evolving digital society. You can find him on LinkedIn to join the conversation.
