Why You Should Embrace AI Learning Now, Even If You Don’t Feel Prepared
I’ve spent countless hours this past year engaging with fellow innovators, diving deep into their thoughts and creative processes with AI. Recently, while recording an episode of Builder Stories, I found myself reflecting on my own journey in a way I hadn’t before. What struck me was the clarity that emerged simply from pausing and retracing the steps that led me to this point.
How This All Began
My learning style has always thrived on dialogue. By talking to others, asking questions, and exploring ideas through conversation, I gain insights. When the job market evolved and AI permeated virtually every industry, I felt compelled to dive in rather than remain a passive observer. My podcast became a unique blend of classroom and workshop, allowing me to learn publicly while sharing my insights with others navigating a similar path.
Embracing the Start Before You Feel Ready
During my interview, the significance of simply getting started echoed throughout our conversation. I emphasized how crucial it is to begin, even if your initial efforts seem shaky. The first episodes of my show? They were far from polished. With no established structure, workflow, or support, I was experimenting live.
Take my first attempt at creating a simple cover letter generator; it was a struggle. It took several tries to visualize what effective output could look like. This taught me a vital lesson: Progress in AI—and indeed in any new venture—emerges only after you accept that your first iteration won’t be the last. It’s all about refining, adjusting, and enhancing. Whether you’re building products, switching careers, or embarking on a new learning journey, this principle holds.
Why I Believe Everyone Can Become a Builder
A recurring theme on my podcast is the belief that anyone can become a builder, and this belief crystalized further during the interview. The myth that you need advanced technical skills to begin is simply untrue. What most of us lack isn’t knowledge but confidence—a relatable example of someone brave enough to take the first step.
I’ve watched participants in workshops come in feeling uncertain, only to leave equipped with their own working AI agents. Their stories showcase a new reality: building is no longer limited to a select few with technical prowess. It’s a skill developed through curiosity and repeated practice.
Play as the Entry Point to Learning
One crucial reminder I hold dear is this: If you’re not enjoying the process, what’s the point? While I create AI agents for work, I also find joy in crafting whimsical Christmas songs with my kids on Suno, doing so simply for the pleasure it brings. Embracing play can often be the gateway to learning, providing a low-pressure space to practice before applying skills to real-world challenges.
We are only at the beginning of this journey, with vast opportunities for exploration and experimentation. My experience as a guest on my own show allowed me to appreciate the growth I’ve achieved by remaining curious and taking the plunge before I felt completely prepared.
For those of you still pondering whether to start, consider this your personal invitation. You don’t need to be an expert; you just need to take that first step, learn along the way, and allow yourself to savor the adventure. Embrace the thrill of the unknown, and who knows where it might lead you.
