Michelle Gibson-Morgan. Lead. Learn. Change. Thrive.

This is part 2 of my learning journey with AI and Chat GPT. You can read part 1 here.

In today’s rapidly evolving workplace, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI)—particularly Generative AI—has become an increasingly important competence to master. As we navigate the world of AI, the ability to adapt, learn, and stay curious is key to thriving as a leader. In Part 1 of this series, I shared how I chose to embrace Generative AI, specifically ChatGPT, rather than shy away from it, despite the myths and misconceptions surrounding AI technology. I discussed my personal learning journey and how I began to learn to integrate AI tools into my work. In this second part, I’m focusing on the leadership lessons that have emerged from my experience.

Leadership lessons that have emerged

1. Leading Through Curiosity

As leaders, we often feel pressure to know everything or have all the answers. However, one of the most powerful leadership traits we can exhibit is curiosity—being open to what we don’t know and what we have yet to master. When I first encountered Generative AI, I could have easily dismissed it. Instead, I embraced the opportunity to learn, recognizing that curiosity is essential to personal and professional growth.

As leaders, we must give ourselves—and our teams—permission to be curious, to explore, and to embrace the unknown. When we model this behavior, we create a culture of learning and innovation.

2. Leading by Example to Give Permission to Learn and Grow

One of the most significant lessons I learned in this journey is the importance of leading by example. By openly exploring AI and sharing my learning process with my team, my aim was to give them permission to do the same. They would not see AI as a risky or overwhelming challenge, but as an opportunity for growth and development. This mindset shift is crucial in today’s fast-paced world where digital transformation is happening at every level.

This journey has reminded me that effective leadership is about having the willingness to learn and grow alongside our teams. When leaders commit to lifelong learning, it creates a ripple effect, encouraging team members to step out of their comfort zones and embrace their own learning journeys.

Through my willingness to explore Generative AI, my team would be inspired to adopt a similar mindset—one focused on development rather than perfection. By fostering this culture, as leaders we can help our organizations stay ahead of the curve, ensuring that everyone feels empowered to innovate and adapt to new technologies.

3. The Importance of Continuous Learning

Leadership in the modern era is not only about managing teams, but also about continuous learning and development. Whether you are delving into experiments with artificial intelligence, exploring new management frameworks, or honing your communication skills, ongoing growth is essential.

Through my experience with learning about Generative AI, I reinforce how embracing learning and dedicating time to upskilling can significantly impact leadership effectiveness. Leaders who prioritize learning not only strengthen their own skills but also create an environment where curiosity, collaboration, and innovation thrive.

Conclusion

My journey with Generative AI and Chat GPT has reinforced an important leadership principle- leading with curiosity. In a world where technology is constantly evolving, staying curious, open, and committed to growth is key to thriving as a leader. By investing in our own development, we give our teams permission to do the same, fostering a culture that embraces learning and innovation at every level. If you are a leader navigating the complexities of AI or any other new technology, I encourage you to stay curious, embrace what you don’t know, and commit to the journey of lifelong learning. It’s through this commitment that we become better leaders, role models, and innovators in our fields.

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