Identity forms the core of our self-perception and actions. The term "identity" itself is derived from the Latin *identitas*, which suggests sameness and continuity. This concept of a coherent self has been a focal point in psychological studies, notably explored by figures like Erik Erikson, who emphasized identity as the bridge between the personal and societal.

Sigmund Freud, another towering figure in psychology, suggested that our identity is a complex structure, influenced by conscious desires and unconscious forces. He famously noted, "The ego is not master in its own house." This idea suggests that much of what we consider our 'identity' is influenced by factors beyond our conscious control.

Today, we stand at a technological crossroads with generative AI (Gen AI), where similar identity conflicts arise. Some view the use of AI in everyday tasks as a form of 'cheating'—a betrayal of the human element that traditionally defined work and creativity. But is this hesitation justified, or is it akin to the legend of John Henry?

John Henry, the "steel-driving man," famously raced against a steam-powered rock splitter, a contest he won at the cost of his life. This story raises profound questions: Did the operator of the steam drill feel remorse? Did John Henry die content, having proven his point? And crucially, did the steam drill, devoid of feelings, care at all?

In contemplating this, I argue that John Henry’s battle wasn't against the machine but against change itself. Today, we face a similar transition with Gen AI. Like choosing to take an elevator over stairs, or a car over walking, each technological advance offers us a choice: adapt and harness its potential, or stick to traditional methods, possibly to our detriment.

Consider this: Would you prefer a mortgage broker using spreadsheets and modern software, or an abacus? When my children were introduced to calculators in third grade, my initial fear was that they would lose basic math skills. Instead, they not only excelled in math but also grasped complex concepts more readily, thanks to the tools at their disposal.

In the professional sphere, if a salesperson uses Gen AI to craft a compelling message, isn't that just an evolution of using PowerPoint instead of a whiteboard, or email instead of FedEx? The core task—communication—remains unchanged; only the tools have evolved.

The sooner we embrace Gen AI as another tool, the sooner we can redirect our energies towards innovation and adding real value. After all, isn't that the ultimate goal of any technological advancement? To liberate us from mundane tasks and empower us to achieve more than we could unaided?

As for this blog post? Yes, it was initially drafted with the assistance of a generative AI, transforming my initial thoughts into a structured, coherent argument. Far from feeling like 'cheating,' it feels like making the most of the tools available to us—a step towards embracing a future where human creativity and AI efficiency coexist harmoniously.