308. Are You Cheating Yourself? AI, Creativity, and the Importance of Process

In this episode of Creative Chats, host Mike Brennan discusses the struggles of consistency in creativity and the importance of daily creative habits. He emphasizes the need for encouragement and progress tracking in the creative process. The conversation then shifts to the impact of AI on creativity, exploring both the opportunities and challenges it presents for artists. Brennan encourages listeners to maintain their creative agency and engage in meaningful dialogue about the evolving landscape of creativity and technology.

3 Key Takeaways:

🎨 Don’t Delegate Your Agency – Mike cautions against letting AI or any tool do all the heavy lifting in your creative work. The essence of your originality and growth comes from the hands-on process—not just the outcome.

🎨 Intentional Use of Tools – AI is just that: a tool. Using it thoughtfully and with purpose can enhance creativity, but over-reliance can dull your skills and creative “muscles.” Know when to lean in—and when to lean on your own abilities.

🎨 Embrace Dialogue, Not Division – As the creative world navigates change, Mike urges listeners to keep conversations around AI open, empathetic, and respectful. Diverse perspectives are vital, and we all stand to grow by genuinely engaging with opposing viewpoints.

Episode Highlights:

• The struggle for consistency and creative confidence, and how the Daily Creative Habit can help (00:00–00:05)

• Real-world observations from networking events and art crawls about attitudes toward AI (00:05–00:17)

• The danger of “cheating yourself” by overusing AI or shortcuts in the creative process (00:12–00:14)

• The importance of community, conversation, and staying true to your unique creative voice (00:16–00:20)

Links and Resources:

• Mike’s Website

• Daily Creative Habit Resources

• Daily Creative Habit Membership & Journal

• Explore Mike’s art, books, and coaching: mikebrennan.me

 

Feeling inspired?

Don’t forget to subscribe to Creative Chats and leave a review! Your feedback helps us bring more amazing content to fuel your creative journey.

And, if you’re ready to deepen your creative practice, explore the Daily Creative Habit Membership and other resources at dailycreativehabit.com. Keep creating. When you create, we all win!