Does AI Hurt My Thinking? By James Love

 Does AI Hurt My Thinking?

How to Use Artificial Intelligence Without Losing Your Mind

By James Love

AI is one of the greatest tools available to us right now. But like all powerful tools, it raises important questions:

• Is AI safe for us long-term?
  
  
• Is it starting to replace the way we think and create?
  
  
• Are we turning to AI the way we used to turn to God—for answers, validation, and clarity?
  
  

As someone who uses AI often, I’ve been asking myself: is AI helping me think better, or is it replacing my thinking altogether?

5 Ways I Use AI That Help My Thinking

1. Brainstorming for Writing Assignments
   
    Sometimes I’m stuck on a topic or need a nudge to get started. AI helps me map out ideas faster so I can focus on shaping the message in my own voice.
   
   
2. Thought Partner for Creative Projects
   
    I treat AI like a sounding board. I toss out ideas, it responds, and I refine. It’s not making the decision—it’s helping me sharpen mine.
   
   
3. Research Assistant
   
    AI helps me sift through data, studies, and definitions much faster than a standard Google search. I still check the sources—but the time saved is major.
   
   
4. Outlining Complex Topics
   
    When I’m trying to explain something layered (like brainwashing, spirituality, or identity), AI helps me break it down into a clean, teachable structure.
   
   
5. Getting Past Overthinking
   
    Instead of getting stuck in analysis paralysis, I use AI to start. Then I rework it, expand, and put my truth on the page.
   
   

5 Ways I Avoid Using AI (So It Doesn’t Hurt My Mind)

1. I Don’t Let It Write For Me
   
    If AI is doing all the talking, I’m not doing any of the thinking. I use it to spark, not speak for me.
   
   
2. I Don’t Use It for Deep Emotional Processing
   
    AI can simulate empathy—but it doesn’t feel. I talk to people or journal when I need real connection or emotional clarity.
   
   
3. I Don’t Let It Replace Spiritual Reflection
   
    AI can quote scripture. It can even summarize devotionals. But it can’t speak to my spirit. I keep my faith walk personal.
   
   
4. I Don’t Assume It’s Always Right
   
    It’s a helpful tool—not a flawless authority. I fact-check and bring in other sources before I settle on a position.
   
   
5. I Don’t Let It Interrupt Silence
   
    Thinking deeply often requires silence, stillness, and even confusion. If I rush to AI every time I’m unsure, I lose the gift of sitting with questions.
   
   

Key Takeaways:

• AI is powerful, but it should serve you—not replace you.
  
  
• Use AI to speed up your process—not to outsource your thinking.
  
  
• Avoid relying on AI for spiritual, emotional, or identity-centered decisions.
  
  
• Build boundaries with AI, just like you would with social media or streaming.
  
  
• Silence and discomfort are still part of human growth. Protect them.