AI is no longer a distant future; it’s firmly embedded in the way we work.
From streamlining admin to interpreting data and managing customer interactions, AI is transforming workflows and freeing leaders from routine. But its greatest contribution isn’t efficiency it’s capacity. The capacity to focus on the work that truly moves people and organisations forward.
As a thought leader, content creator, and leadership expert, I don’t rely on AI to generate my core intellectual property, that remains a distinctly human craft. But I do embrace AI for what it does best: clearing the clutter, creating space, and returning time to where it matters most.
After more than two decades supporting leaders and teams, one thing is clear: being time-poor is one of the biggest barriers to effective leadership. And the issue isn’t just how time is managed, it’s how it’s invested.
Recently during our Ramp up EQ in a World of AI program, a CEO shared that AI tools were saving him up to five hours a week. But when I asked how he was using that reclaimed time, his answer was telling:
“Catching up on emails, focusing on sales, and putting out fires.”
That response is common and understandable. But it also reveals a missed opportunity. AI shouldn’t just help us do more. It should help us lead better.
The leaders making the greatest impact right now aren’t using AI to add tasks to their list, they’re using it to reconnect with what matters most: their people.
Because while AI can enhance performance, it can’t replace presence, empathy, or trust—the fundamentals of high-performing teams.
We Need to Bring Back the Human Touch
Across the industries we support, a troubling pattern is emerging: many workplaces are experiencing a disconnection crisis, and AI, despite its value is accelerating the drift.
Here’s what I’m seeing:
- Soft skills are fading – Empathy, influence, and conflict resolution are increasingly sidelined as AI takes on more “conversational” roles.
- Communication is becoming shallow – Slack messages and Zoom calls have replaced deep, in-person dialogue. Trust and collaboration are taking a hit.
- Information overload is real – With constant data influx, focus, engagement, and critical thinking are harder to sustain.
- Fewer meaningful conversations – Automation is replacing genuine human connection.
- Emotional disconnect is rising – AI lacks emotional intelligence—and without intention, so do some teams.
- Creativity is declining – Quick, machine-generated solutions are limiting opportunities for original thought.
- Burnout is increasing – The digital noise is overwhelming, leading to mental fatigue.
- Presence is diminishing – Leaders are busy but rarely fully present. This undermines psychological safety.
- Culture is eroding – AI-driven exchanges lack the rituals and stories that build team identity.
- Over-reliance on AI – Critical thinking declines when teams defer too quickly to automated answers.
But here’s the good news: visionary leaders are already turning the tide. They’re leveraging the time AI saves to reinvest in what can’t be automated and that is real human connection.
7 Ways to Reclaim the Human Touch
Be Present, Not Just Available
Being “available” on Slack or email doesn’t equal being truly present. Create intentional space for focused, real-time conversations. Minimise distractions. Whether it’s a five-minute phone call or a longer one-on-one, presence makes people feel seen and heard.
Master Verbal Communication
Tone, energy, and responsiveness matter more than ever. Yet written communication often dominates. Leaders who elevate their verbal skills build trust faster and lead with more influence and impact.
Ask Better Questions
AI gives answers. Leaders ask the questions that matter. Move beyond the metrics and spark meaningful conversations:
- “What’s feeling heavy right now?”
- “What’s one thing we’re not talking about that we should be?”
- “What lights you up?”
These questions build psychological safety and encourage honest dialogue.
Create Human-Centred Rituals
AI can streamline tasks—but it can’t build belonging.
Human rituals restore connection and culture. Try:
- Weekly gratitude circles
- Monthly “Win Wednesdays”
- Open mic sessions for sharing ideas
- Storytelling around lessons and learnings (embracing a Gift Mindset)
These micro-moments create meaning and reinforce shared values.
Lead with Emotional Intelligence
Efficiency doesn’t equal empathy. Great leaders know people matter more than processes. Build EQ by being curious, not just reactive.
Ask: “What else is going on here?”—and listen deeply.
In an AI-driven world, emotional intelligence is not a soft skill—it’s a core leadership capability.
Be Focused, Not Just Busy
Constant notifications make us feel productive but scattered. The most effective leaders reclaim presence by pausing:
- Block 15–20 minutes each day to unplug
- Schedule walking meetings
- Make time for thoughtful, uninterrupted reflection
This space isn’t wasted—it’s where clarity and creativity thrive.
Rebuild Culture Through Connection
Culture can’t be outsourced. It’s formed through shared moments, lived values, and meaningful connection.
Reignite your team’s culture through simple but powerful rituals like:
- Team storytelling
- Celebrating small wins
- Recognising everyday impact
- Reinforcing purpose
These practices create cohesion and a strong sense of identity, even in a digitally driven world.
Leading with Humanity in a Digital World
AI is here to stay and that’s a good thing. It’s powerful, practical, and can boost productivity in profound ways. But it will never replace what makes leadership truly impactful: empathy, trust, presence, and connection.
Limitless Leaders aren’t choosing between AI and humanity.
They’re using AI to make more room for humanity.
They’re asking:
“What do I want to do with the time I’ve reclaimed?”
And increasingly, the answer is:
Connect more deeply. Lead more meaningfully. Communicate more powerfully.
Written by Renée Giarrusso, have you read?
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