Dec 15th, 2024

Needs Improvement Newsletter

Hey friends,

This idea has been on my mind as I’ve been meditating outside most mornings this winter, embracing the cold and starting my day away from screens.

In those quiet moments, I reconnect with nature, the elements, and myself in ways technology simply can’t. That connection feels vital. A grounding force in a world increasingly mediated by devices.

This idea of “mediation” has been with me since graduate school. I studied media theory and production in undergrad and went even deeper down the rabbit hole in grad school, exploring propaganda history and how media and technology shape culture. I had no idea then how relevant that education would become.

Back in my 20s, I also ran a blog called A Life Less Mediated. The name reflected my fascination with removing intermediaries between ourselves and our experiences.

To mediate is to filter, to distract, to distance. And while the blog leaned academic and maybe a little fist-shaky at the time, its core question remains: What happens when we lose direct connection to what really matters?

Today, that question feels more pressing. We’re not just talking about media anymore, we’re talking about artificial intelligence. Another more powerful way to mediate our experience with information.

Tools that promise efficiency but risk disconnecting us from the very processes that make us human: creativity, introspection, and growth.

Have you noticed it?

And it’s not just AI. Look at dating apps, short-form video apps, and resume ATS systems designed for speed, ease, and efficiency. They’ve shifted the way we relate to each other and to information. ​
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Transactional. Replaceable. Ghostable.
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The design of these products nudges us toward behavior that shapes culture.

I'm not arguing for fearing the technology. I'm saying we need to use it consciously.

Because tools shape behavior, and behavior shapes culture.

When we default to AI’s shortcuts, we normalize a culture of superficiality: speed over substance, convenience over craftsmanship.

And yet…
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Creativity isn’t just what you make it’s how you make it.
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The slow, deliberate process of thinking, trying, failing, and learning isn’t a barrier to creativity; it is creativity.
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Chopping wood and carrying water isn’t just a task.
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It’s the point.

So here’s a question:

Are you using AI to amplify your creativity and critical thinking, or are you outsourcing it?

The difference matters.

Because when we let machines write our stories, we risk losing the plot altogether.

In my coaching work, I see this dynamic every day. My clients often feel overwhelmed, distracted, and disconnected, not just from their work, but from themselves. No technology required.
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Now imagine what happens when we bring in a billion dollar industry and point it at the most sensitive parts of our brain.

The real challenge?

Reclaiming our ability to think deeply, act intentionally, and create meaningful lives.

AI can’t do that work for you.

It’s deeply human work.

It requires us to slow down, to be intentional, and to trust ourselves.

So ask yourself:
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Where do you feel AI and other technology nudging you towards?
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How do you stay mindful with it?
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What might your life look like if you chose to slow down, embrace your inner wisdom, and let something truly original emerge?

I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Here’s to building a life less mediated.

In solidarity,

Nicholas Whitaker
Coach and Co-Founder changingwork.org​

A Group Coaching Opportunity for you in Feb of 2025

Looking to Start 2025 Stronger, More Aligned, and Fully Supported?

my changingwork.org Co-Founder Scott Shutte and I are thrilled to announce the launch of a new Group Coaching Program, kicking off in February 2025.
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This is your opportunity to grow alongside a community of like-hearted professionals, explore transformative practices, and connect your work and life with your core values.

What to expect:

• Monthly wisdom talks, group discussions, and hot-seat coaching sessions led by Scott and me.
• Intimate cohort meetings guided by trusted facilitators to deepen your insights and create real change.
• Access to an online community with exclusive recorded content, resources, and a space to connect between sessions.

Who is this for?​
Anyone ready to:

• Build resilience and navigate life’s challenges with greater clarity and calm.
• Forge meaningful connections with peers who truly get it.
• Take practical steps toward personal and professional growth.

At just $99/month, this program includes full access to the Changing Work Collective ($39/month value).

Spots are limited! If this resonates with you, click below to express your interest.
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No commitment required yet, just let us know you’re curious.

👉 [Sign Up for Early Access]

Become an Author in Our Next Book!

We still have a 5ish slots available for authors as part of our 3rd book project at Changing Work, where we believe in the power of community, both at work and in the wisdom we share.
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Following up with our Amazon best seller: "Leading With Self Awareness: Starting from the inside out", our second book is coming out on Valentine's day of 2025 and is in it's final stages of editing.
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Our Third book is being published in May 2025.
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That's where you come in!
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​Working Title: “Are We Friends or Coworkers? Exploring Community in the Workplace.”

We want to hear your stories, reflections, and ideas.
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Whether you’re a leader, team member, or someone who’s simply passionate about creating conscious communities at work, your voice matters.
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Join us in writing a book about conscious business?

👉 [Apply here]

​New Episode: Navigating Transitions with Purpose | Nicole Serena Silver - Career Alignment Founder and Author, and Entrepreneurial Coach​

Join host Nicholas Whitaker and Nicole Serena Silver, as they discuss the impact of self-reflection and support systems on success.

Nicole discusses her journey into the professional development space, including her work with high school students through her nonprofit, GrowMyFuture.org, her contributions to Forbes, and her role as an entrepreneurial coach.
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She shares insights on finding career clarity, self-awareness, and adaptability, especially in the face of disruptive events like layoffs and technological advancements.

Nicole highlights the importance of aligning one's work with personal values and passions, and offers anecdotes of successful client transformations. She also delves into the challenges and strategies for older adults navigating career pivots and stepping into entrepreneurship.

​Vekita Personal Development​
​GROWmyfuture.org​
​NicoleSerenaSilver.com

Client Testimonial

Ready for more? Here are 3 ways we can work together

1. ​Download my free workbooks to help make sense of yourself and the world around you in uncertain times
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2. ​Apply for a call and explore how 1:1 coaching can help you live a conscious and intentional life
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3. ​Join the Changing Work Collective and be a part of the movement to change work from the inside out.

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