AI Home Improvement?

In our household, I’m known more as Tim “The Toolman” Taylor than Al Borland from the popular ’90s sitcom Home Improvement.

Just last week I fixed the invisible fence that keeps our dogs safely in the yard. My wife Heather was shocked when I sat down in my recliner; she couldn’t believe I had fixed it so quickly. (I will confess that I was the one who accidentally cut it while clearing brush.)

I’ve been getting better at relatively simple fixes like this. What’s my secret? Learning, of course.

I’m not reading books, taking classes, or becoming Al Borland’s apprentice. I’m using resources at my fingertips.

Years ago, those might have been my only options (aside from digging up a manual I somehow saved and could actually find).

More recently, I’ve searched for videos and watched experts on YouTube teach me how to complete fixes with a pretty good success rate.

Although, many times it took a few videos to find the right one, and I often had to sit through ads or content I didn’t need.

Lately, I’ve been using ChatGPT or even a basic Google search, where Gemini provides the specific instructions I need.

I don’t have to search for a manual, take a class, or even watch a video. I ask a question, and it gives me the instructions.

Just today, I noticed our shutters were falling off because the holes in the brick had worn out and the screws were slipping loose.

Google (Gemini) pulled from resources across the web, including videos, and gave me simple, clear instructions that helped me fix the shutters in minutes.

Of course, there’s still a need for deeper learning: books, courses, and structured programs all matter. But this AI-powered learning, in the flow of work, is becoming one of the most efficient ways to learn.

As a learning professional and self-described Tim “The Toolman” Taylor, I’m excited about the future of learning.

Maybe this will free up more time for higher-level thinking, deeper learning, and being present with family and friends.

Learn in the flow of life

Jason