AI Journaling Changed My Life

🌈 Abstract

The article discusses the author's experience using GPT-3 as a journaling tool for personal development. It explores how GPT-3 can be used as a creative and supportive tool for journaling, providing benefits similar to talking to an empathetic friend or therapist. The article also addresses the potential limitations and concerns around using AI for such personal practices.

🙋 Q&A

[01] Using GPT-3 for Journaling

1. What are the key benefits the author found in using GPT-3 for journaling?

• GPT-3 provides benefits similar to journaling, such as creating a written record, being available 24/7, and never getting tired of listening.
• GPT-3 can act as an empathetic "friend" that provides support and guidance, and can even take on the role of different therapy modalities like Internal Family Systems or Cognitive Behavioral Therapy.
• GPT-3 can help increase gratitude and clarify one's values, acting as an adjunct to traditional journaling.

2. What were some of the limitations the author initially faced when using the OpenAI playground for this purpose?

• The OpenAI playground is not designed for conversational journaling, making it difficult to use.
• It does not retain inputs between sessions, requiring the author to re-explain themselves each time.
• GPT-3 can sometimes get repetitive and ask the same questions.

3. How did the author address these limitations?

• The author built a custom web app with a chatbot interface that remembers previous conversations, allows selecting different personas, and can save session summaries.

[02] Broader Implications

1. What are the author's thoughts on the potential concerns around using AI for personal practices like journaling?

• There is a mix of feelings around using a robot for such personal activities, as it can feel like the experience is cheapened or less genuine.
• However, the author believes these objections are likely temporary as people become more familiar with the technology, similar to how movies were initially seen as a lesser version of live performances.

2. How does the author view the role of AI-powered journaling tools going forward?

• The author sees significant potential for AI-powered journaling tools to complement traditional journaling practices, especially for those who have been journaling for a long time or are looking to get started.
• The author plans to continue experimenting with these tools and sharing their learnings.