Discover how to maintain cognitive independence while using AI tools, especially with ADHD. Learn practical strategies to balance technological assistance with your own critical thinking skills.

As someone with ADHD, I’m constantly using AI na ChatGPT to solve work and problem solving and analysis work. From most basic things, such that I feel I don’t know how to critically think anymore or articulate. How can I take a step back and start actually be critical, analytical and succeed at work.


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From Columbia University alumni built in San Francisco

Lena: Hey Miles, I've been noticing something about myself lately. I'm constantly turning to ChatGPT for everything—from drafting emails to planning my day to solving work problems. And I'm starting to worry that I'm becoming... well, dependent on it.
Miles: You know, that's such a timely concern, Lena. You're definitely not alone there. I was just reading about this phenomenon—especially how it affects people with ADHD. There's this fascinating tension where AI tools can be incredibly helpful for managing executive function challenges, but they might also make us question our own abilities.
Lena: Exactly! That's what I'm struggling with. Sometimes I wonder if I even remember how to think critically on my own anymore. Like, am I outsourcing my brain?
Miles: It's interesting how that works, right? On one hand, these tools can reduce what researchers call our "cognitive load"—essentially freeing up mental bandwidth. But there's a fine line between support and dependency. I think what's missing for many people is understanding how to use AI as a partner rather than a replacement.
Lena: That makes sense. I guess I'm looking for that balance—using AI to help with the heavy lifting while still exercising my own critical thinking muscles. So how do we actually do that?
Miles: That's the million-dollar question! Let's explore how we can maintain our cognitive independence while still benefiting from what AI has to offer—especially for those of us with ADHD or similar challenges.