We’ve all heard about how artificial intelligence is transforming industries, but what happens when you don’t take advantage of it? Whether you’re managing a facility, running a small business, or tackling a home project, avoiding AI can lead to inefficiencies, wasted time, and missed opportunities for growth.
I’ve experienced firsthand how AI can revolutionize the way we work. As someone who manages all aspects of facility maintenance, I use AI tools daily to troubleshoot equipment issues, look up manuals and part numbers, and streamline workflows. The time and effort AI saves are invaluable—and not using it could mean falling behind.
Time: The Biggest Hidden Cost
One of the most significant costs of not using AI is time. Think about the hours spent manually searching for technical manuals, decoding troubleshooting guides, or even trying to find the right part for a repair. Before I started using AI tools, these tasks often involved flipping through outdated books or scouring multiple websites.
Now, with tools like ChatGPT and AI-powered search engines, I can quickly locate specific repair instructions, find compatible parts, and even generate step-by-step guides tailored to the issue at hand. What used to take hours is now done in minutes. Imagine the cumulative savings over weeks or months—and the cost of not having that efficiency.
Missed Opportunities for Smarter Decision-Making
Another hidden cost is the inability to make informed decisions quickly. AI excels at organizing and analyzing data, providing insights that can guide you toward better choices. For example, I’ve used AI to identify patterns in equipment performance, helping me predict potential failures before they happen. This proactive approach reduces downtime and ensures that operations run smoothly.
Beyond troubleshooting, AI is also a game-changer for learning new skills or staying updated on industry trends. Tools like AI-powered online courses or virtual assistants can break down complex topics into easy-to-understand insights, allowing you to stay ahead in your field.
Burnout from Repetitive Tasks
Let’s face it—repetitive tasks are mentally draining. Without AI, much of our workday can be spent on mind-numbing activities like data entry, scheduling, or drafting reports. AI tools can automate many of these tasks, freeing up your mental bandwidth for more creative and meaningful work.
For instance, I’ve used AI to automate maintenance schedules and organize task assignments, giving me more time to focus on high-priority projects. It’s not just about getting more done—it’s about doing better work with less effort.
Embracing AI: A Worthwhile Investment
Adopting AI doesn’t mean replacing your expertise—it means enhancing it. AI works as a powerful assistant, taking care of the tedious or time-consuming aspects of your job so you can focus on what you do best. Whether it’s troubleshooting, research, or staying organized, AI has the potential to transform how you work.
If you’re still hesitant, think about the costs of staying in the past. Time wasted on outdated methods, missed insights, and burnout from repetitive tasks all add up. On the flip side, embracing AI opens the door to greater efficiency, smarter decision-making, and, most importantly, a better work-life balance.
Ready to explore how AI can elevate your daily work? Check out my book, AI Prompting Bootcamp, and visit EddyHiser.com/resources for tools and tips to get started.
