Are we “good girls”? Let’s talk about “taking shortcuts” with AI.

No one thinks twice about using Google Docs instead of a typewriter.

No one doubts a doctor for using digital X-rays instead of film plates.

No one judges a runner for using a smart watch to track their pace and heart rate.

Yet research shows high-achieving women are significantly less likely to use AI. One researcher hypothesized that it could be the “good girl thing.” It’s the belief that we must “go through the pain” and “do it on our own.”

Meanwhile, our male colleagues aren’t wrestling (as much) with these self-imposed restrictions. They’re simply leveraging AI to work smarter, advance faster, and create more impact

I understand the hesitation. Change isn’t easy, and new technology can feel overwhelming at first.

I’ve talked about this before (https://lnkd.in/gtv9K3RE) and have had several thoughtful conversations about it in recent weeks. I’m sharing my perspective here not to prescribe, but to open a dialogue and learn from each other.

A research study shows that women use AI 16-20% less than men. Maybe it’s worth questioning that inner voice that says we must “earn it the hard way.”

The truth is, our worth isn’t measured by how much unnecessary struggle we go through.

Using AI responsibly isn’t about cutting corners. It’s about choosing to work smarter, not harder. It’s about respecting our time and energy, wherever we are in our journey with these tools.

We don’t get extra points for doing things the hardest way possible.

Let’s focus on creating impact while supporting each other along the way.

Thoughts?

#AIGenderGap #AIAdoption #ResponsibleAI #EthicalAI GrowthPath Partners