The workplace training we all need in the age of AI

A human-centered approach in the age of AI

Dozens of my conversations are peppered with talk of Artificial Intelligence each day. From automating mundane tasks to revolutionising decision-making, AI promises a future of unprecedented efficiency. But amidst the excitement and rapid change, a crucial question often gets overlooked: what about the humans at the heart of our organisations?

We must ensure our teams don't just survive, but truly thrive, in this AI-driven world. So, how? The answer lies not just in technological adoption, but in fiercely centring our most valuable asset: human potential.

AI brings a new challenge in stress management

For years, we’ve grappled with stress and burnout. Now, AI introduces a new layer of complexity. On one hand, it can free up capacity, allowing individuals to focus on more creative, strategic, and deeply human work. Yet, it also brings anxieties – fears of redundancy, the pressure to constantly reskill, and the unspoken expectation to perform at a new, accelerated pace. This isn't just about output; it's about the psychological toll these shifts can take.

Think about it. AI excels at crunching data, identifying patterns, and executing repetitive tasks with incredible speed. What it can’t do is innovate with genuine curiosity, connect with empathy, or solve complex, nuanced problems that require intuitive judgment. These are the uniquely human skills that will differentiate an organisation in the AI age – and they are precisely the skills that stress and burnout erode.

The impact of stress and burnout

When leaders and teams are overwhelmed, their capacity for critical thinking dwindles. Creativity stagnates. Collaboration becomes strained. That relatable, human touch, essential for client relationships and team cohesion, fades. I’ve spent two decades observing workplace dynamics globally, including those in high-pressure environments like legal firms, and I’ve seen firsthand how an over-reliance on sheer grit without adequate support leads to depleted talent, not empowered innovation.

This is why robust stress management and wellbeing programs aren't just a compassionate gesture; they are a strategic imperative. Investing in burnout prevention is about safeguarding your organisation's ability to adapt, invent, and lead through change. It’s about ensuring your people can bring their full, authentic selves to work, leveraging AI as a powerful tool rather than being consumed by its demands.

"The age of AI demands more from us, yes, but it also highlights what truly matters: our humanity."

Many leaders I speak with are seeing the signs right now: low retention, increased absenteeism, a dip in productivity. Perhaps you are too. These aren't just operational hiccups; they are urgent calls to action.

What can we do?

By providing tangible support – from practical stress reduction techniques to fostering a culture where genuine human connection and thoughtful work are prioritised – you empower your teams. You create an environment where the transition to an AI-augmented future is not a threat, but an opportunity for growth and development.

For example, consider programs such as:

• an introductory session to learn about the difference between healthy and chronic stress

• an interactive workshop series on Intentional Leadership, to lay the foundations for a sustainable career

• an organisation-wide offsite to delve into stress management and the practical steps we can all take towards burnout prevention – starting today.

The age of AI demands more from us, yes, but it also highlights what truly matters: our humanity. Organisations that recognise this, and commit to nurturing the wellbeing of their people, will be the ones that don't just implement AI, but truly harness its power to build a more productive, innovative, and ultimately, more human future.