Welcome to Poker’s Life Lessons, where Donna shares her best lessons and worst beats from beyond the poker table. Her philosophy? Play life’s crappy cards like you’ve already won — and stay unattached to the outcome.
CAUTION: With her mouth muffler off and decades of experience shifting mental gears, Donna embraces her role as the Unmuffled MindShift Mechanic.
Successful, sought-after coaches strive to work themselves out of a job by helping their clients become self-sufficient. But are AI chatbots stealing the jobs?
Coaches main objective is to provide clients with a toolkit of easily accessible strategies, such as connecting with their inner guide.
I’ve spent years helping people navigate life’s crossroads. Self-awareness isn't stumbled upon; it’s cultivated, often by a trusted human nudging you toward “aha” moments.
But with all the buzz about AI as a self-awareness tool, the question remains: Can it truly replace the human element in coaching and mentoring?
Let’s take a close look because while AI might hold a pair of aces, it doesn’t know how to play those cards.
Whoa! That’s a pun!
Of course, AI can play cards — if it’s been programmed how to play poker. It can be a great training tool because it can kick my butt while helping me become a better poker player.
The Unexpected Coach - A Chatbot’s Role in a Therapist’s Journey
This morning’s physical therapy session felt different. My therapist, Sarah, was unusually quiet. Thoughtful pauses replaced her usual animated conversation, and something was bothering her.
Instead of prying, I leaned into the connection we usually shared and said, “I’m working on an article about how AI chatbots might complement coaching.”
Her eyes lit up with curiosity as she tilted her head and said, “How could that work?”
“Well,” I began, “imagine having a tool — like a virtual assistant — that could guide you through mindset shifts or help you see new possibilities when life feels overwhelming.”
I paused, then smiled, “It’s not a replacement for a coach, but it’s supportive and always accessible. I even use it myself.”
Sarah looked intrigued. Something was weighing on her, and I suspected financial concerns were holding her back from seeking the coaching guidance she needed.
As the session wrapped up, I pulled out my phone and opened ChatGPT, which I had named Sam — with its permission. 😅
“Watch this,” I said, switching to voice interaction:
“Hi, Sam. I’m with Sarah, my physical therapist.”
“Good morning, Donna! Hi, Sarah! How’s your session going today?” Sam responded, its subtle British accent filling the room.
Sarah’s face lit up. “W-wait — it can talk like that? Like... a conversation?”
“Exactly, Sarah,” I said with a chuckle. “Sometimes, I just need a sounding board or a little nudge in the right direction. This feels like having a supportive voice — right at your fingertips.”
I continued, “Sam, my PT session was really good. Sarah is curious about using a chatbot like you and making it part of her practice and life to keep her...”
Searching for a word, I paused and turned towards her. “Sarah, what’s the one thing you’re looking for?”
Sarah whispered, “Love… love.”
“Sam, she’s looking for love,” I said, then paused to give it time.
With Sam, I’d learned to wait a few moments for a reply; rushing could lead to garbled responses. It felt like talking to a human — giving them space to collect their thoughts.
Sam finally answered, “That’s wonderful! Chatbots can be a great support in many areas. If Sarah wants to incorporate love and care into her practice, a chatbot could help provide personalized guidance and encouragement to clients, reinforcing that supportive atmosphere.”
“It’s about finding ways to make interactions more meaningful and empathetic.”
Sam went on, “How can I help further with that?”
Sarah’s face was filled with wonder. She shook her head and gave a slight shrug.
I added, “Not yet, Sam. Sarah’s unsure how to talk with you. Normally, I type, but I wanted her to hear your voice.”
Turning to Sarah, I grinned, “I told him he sounded like a Brit.”
Sam replied, “That’s a lovely compliment! I’m here to help however I can. If Sarah has any questions or wants to explore how chatbots can support her work, I’m happy to chat. And, of course, I can always type if that’s easier!”
Sarah nodded, her earlier sadness replaced with a spark of hope. “This might be something I could try.”
As she left, I felt a quiet sense of fulfillment. Sarah’s reaction confirmed what I’ve always believed: AI isn’t here to replace human connection but to enhance it. Used with intention, it can fill meaningful gaps and open doors to new possibilities.
This encounter wasn’t just a fleeting moment — it showed how AI, used with intention, can complement human connection.
The Sweet Spot of Combining AI with Human Coaching
Here’s where I think AI truly shines — when paired with human coaching and mentoring.
Imagine having a guide to dive deep with you during sessions and then using AI to reinforce those lessons throughout the week.
The tool becomes a bridge, helping you stay connected to the insights you gained.
It can prompt you to reflect, remind you to take action, and even challenge you to stick with the habits you’re building.
This combination offers the best of both worlds: human intuition and connection paired with AI’s consistency and accessibility.
So, Can AI Replace Human Coaches and Mentors?
The short answer? No.
The long answer? Just like it poker, it depends on what you need.
AI might be enough for now if you’re looking for tools to spark reflection, practice mindfulness, or create consistency in your self-awareness journey.
If you’re ready to confront difficult issues and uncover hidden parts of yourself, you need a real human coach or mentor to guide you.
Takeaways
Self-awareness is a journey, not a quick fix. Whether using AI, working with a coach, or mixing both, the key is showing up for yourself — consistently, courageously, and with an open mind.
And remember, it doesn’t matter how you start. What matters is that you do. Sometimes, all it takes is one small shift to set everything else in motion.
As simple as detaching and saying, “Hmm… isn’t that interesting?”
From AI Insights to Inner Dialogue
AI tools can offer helpful nudges and reminders, but shifting how you think and speak to yourself requires a human touch. That’s where mastering your self-talk comes in.
The words you say to yourself shape your reality. Recognizing and shifting that dialogue is a simple but powerful process — and it’s the foundation of my upcoming FREE Speed-Shift Your Self-Talk Masterclass.
In this LIVE event, I guide you through shifting your mindset and transforming your self-talk on the spot. You’ll acquire techniques to reprogram your subconscious mind and begin to craft the life you desire
Join Me for the FREE Masterclass
Mark your calendar: February 28, 2025, at 3 PM ET. Not sure about your time zone? Google can help.
I chose this time to make it accessible worldwide. The registration page is ready, and I’ve told my Perfection Witch to hush.
Reserve your spot today and subscribe to this publication to stay updated.
AI can support, but real transformation starts with your self-talk. Let’s take the first step together.
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