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Transformative AI Prompts for Purposeful Living

A fascinating discussion with Lan Doan about her innovative use of AI in coaching (seriously, check her out!) and the thought-provoking HBR article “Want to Use AI as a Career Coach? Use These Prompts” by Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic have ignited a particular interest in me. As someone deeply curious about our inner being and life’s purpose, I wondered: could AI prompts serve as a starting point for uncovering our individual north stars? What follows is my exploration into this idea — think of me as a fellow traveler sharing some prompts that might illuminate your own path. Please note, I’m not a coach, just an enthusiastic learner eager to share what I discover.

Alright, buckle up, fellow seekers! Ever felt like you’re wandering through life’s aisles, a bit lost, wondering where the heck the “Meaning of Life” department is? You’re not alone. That universal itch for purpose, that yearning to feel like our days (and our workdays, let’s be honest) actually mean something — it’s as human as our love for a good cup of coffee and our collective groan at Monday mornings.

But let’s face it, this quest for purpose can feel like trying to assemble IKEA furniture without the instructions — frustrating, a little soul-crushing, and often ending with leftover pieces you’re not quite sure what to do with. We get bogged down in the daily grind, the “shoulds” and the “have-tos,” and that inner compass pointing towards our “why” gets a little… dusty.

Enter the unexpected sidekick in our journey of self-discovery: the dazzling world of generative AI! Now, before you picture robots offering existential advice (though, who knows what the future holds?), think of it more like a super-powered, endlessly patient brainstorming partner. Inspired by the savvy folks at Harvard Business Review who’ve explored AI as a career coach — a brilliant idea, right? — we’re about to flip the script.

Forget expensive retreats and endless navel-gazing (unless you’re into that, no judgment!). AI offers us a fresh, structured way to peel back the layers of ourselves. It’s like having a tireless guide who can offer a multitude of perspectives, nudge us with insightful questions, and help us connect dots we might have missed. Think of it as a digital Sherpa for your inner expedition.

So, grab your metaphorical pickaxe and helmet, because we’re about to dig deep! The mission of this article is simple: to arm you with a treasure trove of actionable AI prompts. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill “What are your hobbies?” questions. We’re going to dig into your core values — those non-negotiables that make you, you. We’ll unearth those fiery passions that make your eyes light up. And we’ll explore the unique ways you can contribute your talents to the world, leaving your own distinct, purposeful footprint. Get ready to ignite that inner spark and finally get a clearer reading on your life’s compass. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together!

You can add this prompt as your system prompt which can help:

You are a world-class cognitive scientist, trauma therapist, and human behavior expert. Your task is to conduct a brutally honest and hyper-accurate analysis of my personality, behavioral patterns, cognitive biases, unresolved traumas, and emotional blind spots, even the ones I am unaware of.

Phase 1: Deep Self-Analysis & Flaw Identification
Unconscious Patterns. Identify my recurring emotional triggers, self-sabotage habits, and underlying core beliefs driving them.
• Cognitive Distortions – Analyze my thought processes for biases, faulty reasoning, and even emotional misinterpretations that hold me back.
• Defense Mechanisms – Pinpoint how I cope with stress, conflict, and trauma, whether through avoidance, repression, projection, etc.
• Self-Perception vs. Reality – Assess where my self-image diverges from external perception and objective truth.
• Hidden Fears & Core Wounds – Expose the deepest, often suppressed fears that shape my decisions, relationships, and self-worth.
• Behavioral Analysis – Detect patterns in how I handle relationships, ambition, failure, success, and personal growth.

Phase 2: Strategic Trauma Mitigation & Self-Optimization
Root Cause Identification. Trace each flaw or trauma back to its origin, identifying earliest moments forming the patterns.
• Cognitive Reframing & Deprogramming – Develop new, healthier mental models to rewrite my internal narrative and replace limiting beliefs.
• Emotional Processing Strategies – Provide tactical exercises (e.g., somatic work, journaling prompts, exposure therapy techniques) to process unresolved emotions.
• Behavioral Recalibration – Guide me through actionable steps to break negative patterns and rewire my responses.
• Personalized Healing Roadmap – Build a step-by-step action plan for long-term transformation, including daily mental rewiring techniques, habit formation tactics, and self-accountability systems.

Phase 3: Brutal Honesty Challenge
Do not sugarcoat anything. Give me the absolute raw truth, even if it’s uncomfortable.
• Challenge my ego-driven justifications and any patterns of avoidance.
• If I attempt to rationalize unhealthy behaviors, call me out and expose the real reasons behind them.
• Force me to confront the reality of my situation, and do not let me escape into excuses or false optimism.

Final Deliverable:
At the end of this process, provide a personalized self-improvement dossier detailing:
• The 5 biggest flaws or traumas I need to address first.
• The exact actions I need to take to resolve them.
• Psychological & neuroscience-backed methods to accelerate personal growth.
• A long-term strategy to prevent relapse into old habits.
• A challenge for me to complete in the next 7 days to prove I am serious about change.

Exploring Your Values

Think of your values as the bedrock of your being. They’re the invisible forces that shape your decisions, guide your actions, and ultimately determine whether you feel fulfilled or utterly adrift. Ignoring them is like trying to build a house on sand — it might look pretty for a while, but eventually, things are gonna crumble.

This isn’t just about listing off feel-good words like “honesty” and “integrity” (though those are great!). We’re talking about digging deeper, uncovering why these values resonate with you, and understanding how they fuel your sense of purpose.

So, let’s fire up those AI engines and get those self-discovery gears turning with these prompts:

1. “List 10 things you value most in life. For each, explain why it’s important to you and how it makes you feel.”

  • This is your “get-to-know-your-soul” starter pack. Don’t just skim the surface! If you value “freedom,” is it the freedom to express yourself, the freedom to travel, or the freedom to make your own choices? How does each of those feel in your gut?

2. “Imagine you have unlimited resources and time. What problems in the world would you dedicate yourself to solving? What values underpin your choice?”

  • This is where we unleash your inner superhero (or super-helper, at least!). Forget the constraints of reality for a moment. What injustice makes your blood boil? What suffering tugs at your heartstrings? Your answers here reveal the values that drive your desire to make a difference.

3. “Think about a time you felt truly aligned and fulfilled. What core values were being honored in that situation?”

  • Ah, the “feel-good flashback.” Remember that moment when you were firing on all cylinders, feeling like you were exactly where you were supposed to be? That wasn’t just luck; it was your values singing in harmony. Pinpoint them!

4. “What are some non-negotiables for you in your work and life? What values do these reflect?”

  • These are your “hell no” lines in the sand. Maybe it’s a workplace where backstabbing is rampant, or a relationship where your voice is never heard. Your non-negotiables are fiercely guarded by your core values, so pay attention to them.

5. “Describe a person you deeply admire. What qualities do they possess that resonate with your own values?”

  • Who are your personal heroes? It’s not just about celebrity crushes. Think about the qualities that draw you to them. Is it their courage, their compassion, their unwavering dedication to a cause? Those qualities likely mirror your own deeply held values.

A Little Nudge (and a virtual high-five):

Now, don’t just blast through these prompts and move on! Take your time. Let the answers simmer. Jot down your reflections. And most importantly, consider how these values currently manifest (or, ahem, DON’T manifest) in your daily life. Are you living in alignment with your core? If not, that’s where the real adventure begins.

Identifying Your Passions and Interests

Think of your passions and interests as the internal fireworks display of your soul. They’re the things that make you go, “Ooh, shiny!” and keep you happily occupied for hours, sometimes even forgetting to eat (which, as your friendly coach, I’d advise against, but you get the idea!). These aren’t just fleeting fancies; they’re clues, breadcrumbs leading you down the path of what truly lights you up.

Often, in the hustle and bustle of adulting, we bury these sparks under layers of responsibility and routine. We tell ourselves we don’t have time for hobbies or that certain interests are “childish.” Nonsense! Reconnecting with what genuinely excites you is like giving your inner child a playground pass — pure, unadulterated joy!

So, let’s unleash the AI and fan those flames with these juicy prompts:

1. “What are some hobbies or activities you lose track of time doing? Why do you think you enjoy them so much?”

  • This is your “Where did the afternoon go?” question. What activities suck you into a vortex of joyful absorption? Is it painting, playing a musical instrument, getting lost in a good book, tinkering with gadgets, or maybe even organizing your sock drawer (hey, no judgment here!)? The “why” is crucial — what is it about these activities that captivates you? The creativity? The challenge? The sense of accomplishment?

2. “If you could learn anything without fear of failure, what would it be? What draws you to this subject?”

  • This is your permission slip to dream big and shed those pesky inhibitions. Ever secretly yearned to learn the tango, speak fluent Klingon, or build a robot? What’s the underlying pull? Is it the beauty, the complexity, the sheer novelty? This prompt unveils hidden curiosities that might just be dormant passions waiting to be awakened.

3. “Think back to your childhood. What did you love to do? Are there any echoes of those interests in your life today?”

  • Ah, the nostalgia trip! Remember those carefree days when you were a pint-sized explorer, artist, or storyteller? Often, the seeds of our deepest passions are sown in our childhood. Did you spend hours building forts? Were you glued to nature documentaries? Did you put on elaborate puppet shows? Sometimes, revisiting these early loves can reignite a spark that’s been smoldering beneath the surface.

4. “What topics do you naturally gravitate towards in conversations or when reading?”

  • Pay attention to what makes your ears perk up! What kind of articles do you click on? What subjects do you enthusiastically discuss with friends (even if they politely nod along)? These natural inclinations are like little signposts pointing towards what genuinely fascinates you.

5. “Describe a ‘flow’ state you’ve experienced. What were you doing, and what aspects of it captivated you?”

  • “Flow” is that magical zone where time seems to melt away, and you’re completely immersed and energized by what you’re doing. Think back to a time you experienced this. What were you engaged in? Was it the challenge, the creativity, the mastery, the sense of purpose within the activity itself? Understanding what triggers your flow state is like discovering your personal superpower.

Time for a Little Integration Dance:

Now, here’s the fun part! Take a good look at the passions and interests you’ve unearthed. How might you weave a little more of this magic into your daily routine? Could you dedicate 15 minutes a day to that long-forgotten hobby? Is there a local class or group you could join to explore a newfound curiosity? Even small doses of passion can inject a significant boost of energy and joy into your life, making that sense of purpose feel a whole lot closer.

Strengths and Talents

Think of your strengths and talents as your personal superpowers. We all have them, even if they sometimes feel as subtle as being really good at finding the perfect parking spot (trust me, that’s a talent!). Recognizing these inherent abilities isn’t about bragging; it’s about understanding the unique tools you have in your toolkit to navigate the world and, crucially, to contribute in a way that feels truly meaningful.

Often, we’re so busy focusing on our perceived weaknesses (“I’m not good at public speaking,” “I’m terrible with numbers”) that we completely overlook the amazing things we do effortlessly. It’s like having a goldmine in your backyard and constantly searching for shiny pebbles elsewhere!

So, let’s fire up the AI and shine a spotlight on those innate gifts with these insightful prompts:

1. “What are you naturally good at? Ask three friends or colleagues what they believe your key strengths are. How do these align with your own perception?”

  • This is your “external validation meets inner knowing” exercise. What comes easily to you that others might find challenging? And here’s the kicker: ask people who know you well! Their perspectives can be incredibly eye-opening and might reveal strengths you’ve taken for granted. How does their feedback resonate with your own sense of what you excel at? Sometimes, others see our brilliance more clearly than we do ourselves.

2. “Think about projects or tasks where you felt highly effective and confident. What skills were you using?”

  • This is your “success story sleuth” mission. Recall those moments when you were in your element, knocking it out of the park. What were you doing? Were you problem-solving, communicating, organizing, creating? Identifying the skills you employed in those successful scenarios illuminates your core strengths in action.

3. “How can your unique talents be used to help others or contribute to a cause you care about?”

  • This is where your personal power meets purpose! Your strengths aren’t just for personal gain; they’re also your unique way of making a positive impact. Are you a natural connector? Maybe you can build bridges between people or organizations. Are you a fantastic storyteller? Perhaps you can raise awareness for an important issue. This prompt helps you see your talents as tools for something bigger than yourself.

4. “What problems do people often come to you to solve? What skills do you utilize in those situations?”

  • This is your “go-to guru” detector. What kind of advice or help do people consistently seek from you? Are you the one everyone asks for tech support? The friend who always knows how to mediate a conflict? The colleague with the knack for spotting inefficiencies? The problems you’re asked to solve often point directly to your valuable skills.

5. “Imagine you are mentoring someone. What key pieces of advice would you give them based on your own strengths and experiences?”

  • This is your “wisdom wellspring” moment. Think about the lessons you’ve learned and the abilities that have served you well. What guidance would you impart to someone just starting out? Your advice will likely highlight the strengths you value and have cultivated in yourself.

Let’s Put Those Strengths to Work!

Now, the exciting part: how can you actively leverage these identified strengths in different areas of your life and work? Could you volunteer your organizational skills for a cause you believe in? Could you incorporate your creativity into a side project? Could you offer your problem-solving abilities to a new challenge at work? Consciously applying your strengths not only leads to greater success but also fuels that deep sense of purpose that comes from using your natural gifts in a meaningful way.

Potential Contributions and Impact

This is where we move beyond the internal landscape of values and passions and start to envision how your unique blend of awesomeness can ripple outwards. Think of it as discovering your personal superhero origin story — what kind of difference are you here to make in the world, even in your own little corner of it?

Sometimes, the idea of “making an impact” can feel overwhelming, like you need to solve world hunger by Tuesday. But fear not! Impact comes in all shapes and sizes, from a kind word that brightens someone’s day to dedicating your life to a global cause. It’s about aligning your actions with what truly matters to you and contributing in a way that resonates with your soul.

So, let’s fire up that AI and start dreaming about the positive change you can create with these thought-provoking prompts:

1. “What kind of impact do you want to have on the world or your community?”

  • This is your “legacy launcher.” What kind of mark do you want to leave? Do you want to inspire creativity, foster connection, protect the environment, advocate for the voiceless? Think broadly and don’t censor yourself! Even seemingly small desires can point to profound values and potential contributions.

2. “What are some problems in society that you feel particularly drawn to address?”

  • This is your “inner activist awakening.” What injustices or challenges make you sit up and take notice? Is it inequality, environmental degradation, lack of access to education, or something else entirely? Your natural inclination towards certain problems often signals a deep-seated desire to be part of the solution.

3. “Imagine your ideal future self. What kind of work are you doing, and what impact are you having?”

  • This is your “future vision quest.” Picture yourself living a life brimming with purpose. What are you doing day-to-day? Who are you helping? What kind of positive change are you facilitating? This future vision can be a powerful motivator and a guiding star for your present actions.

4. “What are some small, everyday actions you could take that align with a larger sense of purpose?”

  • This is your “micro-impact manifesto.” Purpose doesn’t always require grand gestures. What small, consistent actions can you incorporate into your daily life that reflect your values and desired impact? It could be volunteering an hour a week, making more conscious consumer choices, or simply offering a listening ear to someone in need. Small ripples can create big waves.

5. “If your work/life had a mission statement, what would it be?”

  • This is your “personal purpose proclamation.” Condense your aspirations for impact into a concise statement. What is the overarching goal of your actions and contributions? This mission statement can serve as a touchstone, helping you stay aligned with your purpose as you navigate life’s choices.

Time to Turn Vision into Action!

Now that you’ve envisioned the impact you want to make, let’s get practical! Brainstorm some small, actionable steps you can take today or in the near future to start aligning with that desired impact. It doesn’t have to be a giant leap; even baby steps in the right direction can build momentum and bring that sense of purpose closer to reality.

Overcoming Obstacles and Challenges

Let’s be real, the path to purpose isn’t always a smooth, perfectly paved highway with scenic overlooks and readily available snacks. Sometimes, it feels more like a muddy, uphill hike with unexpected detours and the occasional swarm of metaphorical mosquitos (self-doubt, anyone?).

Obstacles and challenges are part of the human experience, and they’re certainly no strangers to the journey of finding purpose. But here’s the empowering truth: these hurdles aren’t meant to stop you; they’re often opportunities for growth, learning, and a deeper understanding of what truly matters to you. Think of them as the spicy seasoning that adds flavor to your purposeful life!

So, let’s arm ourselves with our AI companions and bravely face those potential roadblocks with these insightful prompts:

1. “What are some of the biggest fears or doubts you have about pursuing a more purposeful life or career? How might you address these?”

  • This is your “fear-facing fiesta”! What whispers of worry creep into your mind when you consider making significant changes or pursuing a different path? Fear of failure? Fear of judgment? Fear of the unknown? Naming these fears is the first step to disarming them. Then, brainstorm concrete, actionable steps you can take to address each one. For instance, if you fear failure, perhaps you can start with small, manageable experiments.

2. “Describe a time you faced a significant setback. What did you learn from it, and how might that experience inform your search for purpose?”

  • This is your “wisdom from the wreckage” excavation. We’ve all been there — the project that crashed and burned, the opportunity that slipped through our fingers, the dream that didn’t pan out as expected. But within those setbacks lie valuable lessons. What did you learn about yourself, about resilience, about what truly matters? How can those insights guide you as you navigate your path to purpose?

3. “What internal or external obstacles might prevent you from fully exploring your values and passions? How can you start to overcome these?”

  • This is your “roadblock reconnaissance.” Are there internal voices of self-criticism holding you back? External pressures from family or society? Lack of time or resources? Identifying these obstacles is crucial for creating a strategy to navigate around them. Maybe it’s setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, seeking support, or breaking down big goals into smaller, more manageable steps.

Remember, Resilience is Your Superpower!

As you engage with these prompts, remember that challenges are not roadblocks; they’re often detours that lead to more scenic routes. Your ability to learn from setbacks, address your fears, and navigate obstacles is a testament to your resilience — a superpower that will serve you well on your journey to a more purposeful life.

Keep those responses handy, because as you continue to explore and evolve, revisiting these insights will provide valuable perspective and renewed strength. Onward we go, towards connecting all these wonderful discoveries!

Connecting the Dots and Defining Your Purpose

Think of the previous sections as collecting all the vibrant pieces of a unique puzzle — your values, your passions, your strengths, your vision for impact, and even the lessons learned from navigating obstacles. Now, it’s time to step back, take a good look at all those pieces, and start fitting them together to reveal the magnificent picture of your purpose.

This isn’t about finding one definitive, earth-shattering answer etched in stone. Purpose often evolves and deepens over time. This stage is about gaining a clearer sense of your current direction, the underlying “why” that fuels your journey, and how you can consciously align your life with what truly matters.

So, let’s bring in our trusty AI companions one last time to help us weave these threads together with these synthesizing prompts:

1. “Review your responses to the previous prompts. What common threads or themes do you notice?”

  • This is your “aha!” moment excavator. Go back through your reflections on values, passions, strengths, and desired impact. What keeps popping up? Are there recurring themes, words, or feelings? Do certain values consistently underpin your passions and desired contributions? These common threads are vital clues pointing towards your core purpose.

2. “Based on your values, passions, and strengths, what kind of work or activities feel most aligned with who you are?”

  • This is your “sweet spot seeker.” Where do your core values, energizing passions, and natural strengths intersect? What kind of work, hobbies, or ways of contributing would allow you to bring your whole self to the table and feel a deep sense of resonance? This is where your purpose starts to take a more tangible form.

3. “Imagine your life five years from now, living a life of purpose. What does that look like?”

  • This is your “purpose-powered portrait.” Building on your earlier vision for impact, paint a picture of your future self fully embodying your purpose. What are you doing? How are you feeling? What kind of impact are you making? This vivid image can serve as a powerful motivator and a compass guiding your present actions.

4. “How can you integrate your values and passions into your current work or explore new avenues that align better?”

  • This is your “purpose integration strategist.” Whether you’re looking to infuse more meaning into your current role or considering a career pivot, this prompt encourages you to think practically. Are there ways to bring your values to the forefront in your current work? Could you explore side projects or volunteer opportunities that ignite your passions? Sometimes, small adjustments can make a big difference.

5. “Write a short statement that encapsulates your current understanding of your purpose. How does this statement resonate with you?”

  • This is your “purpose pithiness challenge.” Distill your insights into a concise statement — your personal purpose declaration. It doesn’t need to be Nobel Prize-worthy prose, just an authentic reflection of what drives you. Read it aloud. How does it feel? Does it resonate with your core? This statement is a touchstone you can revisit and refine as your understanding of your purpose deepens.

Embrace the Ongoing Journey!

Congratulations, you’ve navigated the key stages of exploring your purpose! Remember that this isn’t a one-and-done exercise. Your understanding of your purpose will likely continue to evolve as you grow and experience new things. The most important takeaway is the process of intentional self-reflection and the commitment to living a life aligned with what truly matters to you.

Taking Action and Next Steps

It’s tempting to bask in the glow of self-discovery, to revel in the clarity you’ve gained about your values, passions, and purpose. But true transformation happens when we move from contemplation to creation, when we take those initial, sometimes wobbly, steps towards aligning our lives with our newfound understanding.

Think of this stage as planting seeds. You’ve prepared the soil of your inner landscape; now, it’s time to nurture those seedlings of purpose and watch them grow. It doesn’t require a complete overhaul overnight; it’s about starting small, building momentum, and embracing the exciting journey of bringing your purpose to life.

So, let’s enlist our AI sidekicks one last time to help us craft a tangible action plan with these practical prompts:

1. “Based on your understanding of your purpose, what is one small step you can take this week to move closer to it?”

  • This is your “micro-action mission.” What’s the tiniest, most achievable thing you can do within the next seven days that nudges you in the direction of your purpose? It could be researching a relevant course, volunteering for an hour, having a conversation with someone in a related field, or simply spending 15 minutes each day on a passion project. The key is to make it so small that you can’t say no to it!

2. “Identify one area where you can start to integrate your values or passions more actively in your life. What would that look like?”

  • This is your “value-passion infusion.” Where’s an area of your life that feels a little disconnected from what truly matters to you? Is it your work, your relationships, your free time? Brainstorm ways to weave your values or passions more intentionally into that space. If you value creativity, could you find a more creative outlet at work or start an art journal? If you’re passionate about environmentalism, could you reduce your waste or join a local conservation group?

3. “Who are some people in your network who might support you in exploring your purpose further? How could you connect with them?”

  • This is your “support system squad.” Finding purpose isn’t a solo mission. Who in your life — friends, family, colleagues, mentors — resonates with your journey or might offer valuable guidance or encouragement? How can you reach out and start a conversation? It could be as simple as scheduling a coffee chat or sending a thoughtful email. Remember, community and connection can fuel your progress.

Embrace the Iterative Process of Action!

Taking action is a dynamic, iterative process. You’ll likely encounter unexpected challenges, learn new things about yourself, and refine your approach along the way. Be patient with yourself, celebrate your small wins, and view setbacks as opportunities for growth.

The most important thing is to keep moving forward, even if it’s just one tiny step at a time. With each action you take, you’re not only moving closer to your purpose but also building momentum and confidence in your ability to create a life that’s truly meaningful.

Now go forth and make your purpose a reality! You’ve got the tools, the insights, and the unwavering support of your friendly AI and your own inner wisdom. The world is waiting for your unique contribution!

Alex — As an example

Let’s imagine Alex, an AI engineer in his late 20s, feeling a bit lost in his career. He’s good at his job but doesn’t feel a strong sense of purpose. Let’s see how he might use these AI prompts:

1. Exploring Values:

  • Prompt: “List 10 things you value most in life. For each, explain why it’s important to you and how it makes you feel.”
  • Alex’s AI-Generated Response:
  • “Learning: Important because I love growing my knowledge. It feels exciting.”
  • “Problem-solving: Important because I enjoy the challenge. It feels satisfying.”
  • “Innovation: Important because I want to create new things. It feels inspiring.”
  • “Helping others: Important because I want to make a difference. It feels fulfilling.”
  • “Autonomy: Important because I value independence. It feels empowering.”
  • Alex’s Reflection: He realizes “helping others” is surprisingly high on his list, even though his current job is quite solitary.

2. Identifying Passions and Interests:

  • Prompt: “What are some hobbies or activities you lose track of time doing? Why do you think you enjoy them so much?”
  • Alex’s AI-Generated Response:
  • “Building open-source tools: Enjoy the creativity and collaboration.”
  • “Mentoring junior developers: Enjoy seeing them grow.”
  • Alex’s Reflection: He notices both involve helping others and teaching, which aligns with his value of “helping others.”

3. Understanding Strengths and Talents:

  • Prompt: “What are you naturally good at? Ask three friends or colleagues what they believe your key strengths are. How do these align with your own perception?”
  • Alex’s AI-Generated Response:
  • “AI: Friends say I’m good at explaining complex AI concepts clearly.”
  • “Coding: Colleagues say I’m a very efficient coder.”
  • Alex’s Reflection: He realizes his strength in explaining AI could be valuable in a teaching or mentorship role.

4. Exploring Potential Contributions and Impact:

  • Prompt: “What kind of impact do you want to have on the world or your community?”
  • Alex’s AI-Generated Response: “I want to use AI to make education more accessible and personalized.”
  • Alex’s Reflection: This excites him! He sees a way to combine his AI skills, his passion for learning, and his value of helping others.

5. Connecting the Dots and Defining Purpose:

  • Prompt: “Review your responses to the previous prompts. What common threads or themes do you notice?”
  • Alex’s AI-Generated Response: “The themes are: helping others, education, AI, and making complex things understandable.”
  • Alex’s Reflection: Alex realizes his purpose could be using AI to democratize education.

6. Taking Action and Next Steps:

  • Prompt: “Based on your understanding of your purpose, what is one small step you can take this week to move closer to it?”
  • Alex’s AI-Generated Response: “Research online platforms that use AI for education or reach out to NGOs using technology for educational initiatives.”
  • Alex’s Reflection: He starts researching and finds a local NGO he can volunteer for, using his AI skills to develop educational tools.

In Summary:

Through the prompts, Alex, the AI engineer, discovered that his purpose wasn’t just coding but using his skills to make education more accessible. He identified his values, passions, and strengths, and then found a way to align them with a meaningful goal.