In an AI-fueled world, we need to develop the skills technology can't do for us. #
Posted August 25, 2026 [ Reviewed by Margaret Foley
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Key points
- AI can support emotional well-being, but it cannot replace human connection.
- Human connection requires presence, empathy, and compassion.
- Emotional skills improve through intentional practice.
In the world of AI, it is becoming increasingly essential that we begin to pay more attention to the qualities that make us human: the compassion we bring to the workplace, the emotional intelligence we have as leaders to help influence change within the people around us, and our lived experiences that influence how we interact with others and solve problems. As AI becomes increasingly sophisticated, it becomes more important that we learn to better leverage these strengths.
To find out more, I interviewed Gigi Gupta, a former start-up CEO, executive coach, and meditation teacher who now works in AI. Her experience offers a unique perspective on what technology can replicate and what makes us human.
Where Can AI Help With Emotions? #
When life challenges arise, we have seen a growing trend that many people may seek support from tools like chatbots. In fact, a recent study found that people may be willing to disclose more intimate information to chatbots, in part because they are accessible, convenient, anonymous, and perceived as nonjudgmental. AI can support emotional well-being through pattern recognition, identifying emotional themes, and recognizing signs that may suggest someone could benefit from additional support.
Where AI Reaches Its Limits #
Although AI can be supportive, we know that it should not replace professional judgement, and should only be used as a tool, not as a substitute for evaluation or treatment. "You cannot outsource your presence," Gupta says. "You can outsource the analysis, the drafting, the modeling. You cannot outsource being the steady person in a room full of anxious people." The human presence is unique as it provides empathy, compassion, human judgment, and behavior cues that are vital for genuine connection. For instance, a chatbot can identify themes in prompts that demonstrate frustration and dissatisfaction at work. However, even when additional context is provided, it is limited to what is input and does not have data regarding nonverbal cues, interpersonal dynamics, or other factors that the person may not even recognize. If the information provided is incomplete or reflects a particular perspective, AI may inadvertently reinforce that perspective, providing only a partial picture of the situation.
The Human Skill We Still Have to Practice #
Therefore, as AI continues to grow in popularity and usage, it is important for us to intentionally cultivate the human skills we hold. Research suggests that emotional competencies are not simply fixed traits; they can be developed through intentional practice. When was the last time you were intentional when it came to improving your listening skills, communication, and emotional regulation? AI may be able to provide us with ideas on how to strengthen these skills, but it is up to us to practice engaging in these behaviors. Gupta describes building that skill as unglamorous: meditation, reflection, the between a thought and a response. Taking a moment before responding can make a difference, especially when things get stressful. That brief gives us time to listen, consider what the other person is saying, manage our emotions, and respond thoughtfully.
Why Human Connection May Become More Valuable #
In this day and age, it is not challenging to obtain more information. However, during times of stress, what we often need as humans is connection, someone willing to listen, and to feel understood. Gupta sees this in her own work. “Caring too much about your people has never been what burns leaders out,” she says. “They burn out when they never learn their own steadiness was part of the job.” Being there for others starts with managing yourself. As technology handles more of the work, our ability to show up for each other becomes even more important. In the workplace, this may look like checking in on a colleague you have noticed has been withdrawn, or asking someone how they are really feeling rather than simply giving a standard, “Good morning, how are you?” These small but powerful actions can go a long way in helping people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Action Steps #
Here are some practical ways to build the emotional skills that technology cannot replace:
Practice active listening: I am sure you can think of a time when you jumped to conclusions during a conversation, or had an assumption that you later recognized was inaccurate. Therefore, next time try to focus on understanding before thinking about how you will respond. Ask yourself, “What am I missing, and what else do I need to understand before I respond?” - Ask better questions: When at work, move beyond “How are you?” and ask questions that invite honest conversation with colleagues. For instance, asking deep questions like “What did you enjoy most about your weekend?” or asking “What is one thing you are looking forward to?” can help move conversations beyond small talk and create opportunities for people to share what matters to them. - Pay attention to behavior changes: Beingmindfulofbehavioral changesis essential to further strengthen our emotionalintelligenceand leverage our superpowers as humans. For instance, begin to notice when someone's tone, engagement, or behavior seems different from usual. A colleague who is normally talkative may become unusually quiet, or someone who is typically engaged may seem distracted or withdrawn. This can open up an opportunity to offer support and reach out to let the person know that you noticed a change and are available to listen if they would like to talk. Sometimes, simply knowing that someone noticed and cares can make a meaningful difference.
Bottom Line #
As AI continues to advance, we must use our strengths in a more intentional way within our workplaces and personal relationships. Whether it be spending more time with our loved ones or paying more attention to the well-being of our colleagues, we can all better leverage the parts of us that make us human. This will boost our connection with others, grow our relationships, and provide the support that others need, something that only we can do.
© 2026 Ryan C. Warner, Ph.D.
References
Croes, E. A., Antheunis, M. L., Van Der Lee, C., & De Wit, J. M. (2024). Digital confessions: The willingness to disclose intimate information to a chatbot and its impact on emotional well-being. Interacting with Computers, 36(5), 279-292.
Mehler, M., Balint, E., Gralla, M., Pößnecker, T., Gast, M., Hölzer, M., ... & Gündel, H. (2024). Training emotional competencies at the workplace: a systematic review and metaanalysis. BMC psychology, 12(1), 718.