Your firm may be rolling out new software with impressive AI capabilities, or there’s a buzz about adopting AI tools to streamline work. You know these tools boost productivity, but you’re feeling a little…behind. Maybe you’ve heard colleagues talk about using tools like ChatGPT and Deepseek for various tasks, but you haven’t even logged in yet. Lawyers are aware of the power of AI but hesitate to dive in when they’re unsure where to start. When ChatGPT has 3.6 billion visits a month, the fear of being “the one who doesn’t get it” holds you back from trying. But here’s the twist: learning AI doesn’t have to be another overwhelming task on your to-do list. In fact, it’s fun—and there’s no need for after-hours “homework”—we’ll show you how to integrate AI tools into your personal life to build confidence in the office.
As AI becomes more commonplace in legal settings, the pressure to understand it is mounting. You’ve seen colleagues and peers using tools like ChatGPT and Deepseek, and you feel like you’re the only one who hasn’t taken the plunge. 38% of surveyed attorneys by the ABA stated they don’t know enough about AI to answer questions on the subject. You're asking yourself:
It’s hard to admit you’re unsure of how to get started, especially when everyone else seems so ahead. And with your already packed work schedule and your personal life requiring your attention, you don't want to add another learning curve to your after-hours routine. But here’s the good news: you can ease into AI by using it for personal tasks. No pressure, no stress—just fun ways to get familiar with the basics, all while maintaining your work-life balance.
Yes, AI is a professional treat, but using ChatGPT and other AI services like Deepseek and Seenapse can be a fabulous home assistant or hobby partner!
As Anita Nielsen, President of LDK Advisory Services, aptly states, “The reality is that being unprepared is a choice. The benefits come when we see AI as a tool, not a terror,”
You can use AI for things like meal planning and grocery lists, finding new forms of entertainment and games, creating bed-time stories or family outing itineraries. It’s an easy, low-stakes way to explore its potential and build work confidence while actually enjoying yourself. The first step is heading to your AI of choice. Things like ChatGPT are easy to access at home on your phone and your laptop by visiting the website.
Start small:
As you get more comfortable with how AI responds, refine your requests:
Now that you’re getting a feel for prompt writing, you can really go all-out and have a blast! AI can help get as granular as to route you to and from vacation destinations with train schedules, connections, duration or build a plan around learning a new language or instrument. By using AI in a personal setting, you'll be building your understanding in a relaxed, enjoyable way—no pressure to get it "perfect."
Now that you’ve received an A+ score on understanding the fun and use behind generative AI, you’ll be ready to bring those skills to work. You may have new software or tech that has in-depth AI features available, but feel free to start small as you build your confidence. Begin with some digestible tasks like summarizing an article for research or drafting an email to a coworker. As your comfortability grows, you’ll start using it to streamline more complex tasks, saving time and boosting productivity without the extra stress. With your new AI skills, you’ll feel at the top of your class!
