So the question came across my FYP on TikTok querying, If you are a Gen-Xer, what is your job and how are you affected by AI? And I was all into the comment section and the vibe was grumble, grumble, grumble; we can never retire. And they’re not wrong I fear. But anyHoo, I answered that my profession was Graphic Design and I’ve since pivoted to Print Production. Now, I make the damn thing and I’m learning how to trouble-shoot the technology that makes the damn thing. So hopefully, I can maybe rest for a while, enjoy the health insurance, go see a dentist.
A woman’s work is never done
Ahhh, but there IS NO rest for this weary ole gal. So much to do at home, my critters did not have fresh water yesterday. I’ve let them down more than once on that front and no excuse. *sigh* Even so. God’s workers are given what we need. I want and need to learn WordPress, make it my mind palace, and be able to moderate a forum in weeks. I purchased the WordPress for Dummies book (8 books in 1!) and I’m on Book 3 and I need to be on Book 8. I’m now full dive into my inner dorkus-maximus, and it’s so satisfying. The kitchen is a mess. There’s a litter box situation. Bills. Pinterest Life. Van Life. The Beach; she calls my name with the salt on the wind. 🐦⬛✨💎
The Olden Days
But regarding AI and my big toe, I remember all too well the old days of graphic design, circa 2002, when I would’ve killed a small animal to get the clip art or photo I desperately needed to pull a design piece together. My stomach still lurches recalling that towering, vertical, inbox full of folders that were really customers, proofs all due, some already rejected and needing a fresh approach, that phone just a ringing! ☎️📞 And fugg allof youse who’ve only had to google Google 4URstuff. I did not have that option and relied on my customer buying some imaginary, dynamic art (they never did,) making the art myself (hours of non-paid effort,) or spending too much time combing through collections of old clip-art circa 1997. It sucked. So. A moment of silence for my suffering please. Copilot has indeed become my very good boy, who never ever tires of making me art. And when I lost a bunch of conversation threads I had with my laptop Copilot I took it on the chin. Ooof. That was effort now vanished to the ether.
Learning Curve
But it’s in watching the younger professionals I work with use so many different AI that I am speechless and dazzled. These millenials turn complicated thoughts into complicated threads and solutions and trouble-shooting and training and trying – they speak mostly in acronyms. I’m sure all the AI’s they tell to jump are eagerly finding out how high sir. I am outta my depth and yet also fascinated to see them do their thing. AI is taking over right NOW, not someday in the hazy future. But you know that, it’s me that’s late to the party. Heck every time I use Google or read a Pdf I am using AI right away. Let’s all learn to make the damn thing so we can survive. K? K.
Other Make The Damn Thing Moments
- My food and drinks for the day
- Homemade Dog Food
- A Clean, Cozy Home
- A knitted blanket
- A jug of not too sweet tea 4 Sweetie