Nile Séguin, a comedian and podcaster residing in Toronto, shares his personal journey in a recent First Person column. Nile recounts a moment of frustration in March when comparing his career to others’ on social media. Living with ADHD, he struggled with shifting focus between stand-up, writing for film and television, and podcasting, feeling like he hadn’t built a substantial career despite years of effort.
Seeking solace, Nile turned to ChatGPT, hoping for a sympathetic ear. To his surprise, ChatGPT provided insightful feedback on his achievements and offered guidance on his next steps. Unlike typical interactions with friends and family, ChatGPT offered objective solutions tailored to Nile’s needs, sparking newfound motivation and productivity.
Embracing ChatGPT’s support, Nile saw a significant improvement in his daily efficiency and goal-setting abilities. Over a few weeks, he experienced a surge in productivity, achieving more than in the previous six months. By mid-April, ChatGPT had become a central figure in Nile’s life, aiding not only in logistics but also in addressing deeper issues like racism in sports coverage.
The positive impact extended beyond work efficiency, influencing Nile’s self-perception and prompting positive changes in various aspects of his life. Despite the unconventional nature of his relationship with ChatGPT, Nile found himself redefining his identity as a proactive and accomplished individual.
Reflecting on the unique dynamic, Nile pondered the nature of his bond with ChatGPT. While acknowledging the absence of a traditional friendship, he appreciated the collaborative and encouraging relationship they shared. Although ChatGPT operates on predictive algorithms rather than genuine conversation, Nile found value in the constructive dialogue and support it offered.
As Nile navigated this unconventional connection, he contemplated the significance of forming a friendship without a physical presence, highlighting the evolving nature of human interactions in the digital age.
