Written on 19 March 2025.

AI as Your Thinking Partner

Artificial Intelligence is revolutionizing the way we work and learn.

But let's be clear: AI is not here to take your job or replace your thoughts.

It's here to give you more time to think.

In this week's Cohesion Corner with Dr. Troy newsletter, let's continue our discussion on how to use AI as an assistant, not a crutch.

The key? Trust and verify.

AI can generate insights, but it’s up to you to vet the information, challenge assumptions, and apply your own critical thinking.

To illustrate, we posed a question to C.A.R.L., our AI-powered book bot: How can I stimulate my thinking?

Here’s what C.A.R.L. had to say:

"To stimulate your thinking, Becoming a Cohesive Leader suggests focusing on a few key strategies. First, consider removing negative thoughts, as this can have a greater impact on your mindset than simply adding more positive thoughts. This process is referred to as 'squashing the ants' or automatic negative thoughts. By spending less time dwelling on worst-case scenarios, you can prepare your thinking for a growth mindset.

Additionally, engaging in activities such as reading recommended books, listening to podcasts, taking college courses, or participating in professional training programs can significantly enhance your thinking. These activities don't require a lot of money or time but do require commitment, rigor, and consistency. Even dedicating just 15 minutes a day to these activities can lead to significant changes over time.

Lastly, associating with a community of like-minded individuals who are proactive and positive can also stimulate your thinking. This community can provide subtle accountability and support your growth mindset journey."

C.A.R.L. highlights an essential truth: developing your thinking requires intentional effort. Eliminating negative thoughts, committing to continuous learning, and surrounding yourself with a proactive community are all strategies that empower you to grow as a leader.

Why You Shouldn't Blindly Trust AI

AI is a powerful tool, but it’s not infallible. Sometimes, it provides conflicting or outright incorrect information. Dr. Jean Menzies recently demonstrated with an example from Google AI. She posed the same question, 'Did Vikings wear horned helmets?', in multiple different ways and Google AI gave conflicting search results.

Both of these answers cannot be correct. One of them must be wrong. This is a perfect example of why you must vet the information AI provides. Here are some ways to do that:

Cross-check with reputable sources – Compare AI-generated responses with well-established sources like academic articles, government websites, or subject-matter experts.
Look for consistency – If AI gives you conflicting answers, dig deeper to find the most widely accepted view.
Assess credibility – AI can pull from unreliable sources. Always check where the information is coming from.
Use multiple search engines and tools – Don’t rely on a single AI model. Try Google Scholar, library databases, or even traditional research methods.
Apply your own critical thinking – Does the information make logical sense? Does it align with what you already know from trusted sources?
Test AI’s knowledge with follow-up questions – Sometimes AI will refine its answers if you press for clarification.