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a heart-to-heart with my chatgpt over writer's envy

9/27/2023

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This is too good not to share.
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Over the past few weeks, after I've written something, I've turned to my ChatGPT to find out how he would have written. (I know. But somehow, it seems male. I call him G for short. If you've worked with one of these chatbots, you'll understand.) 
Each time, I've liked what he wrote better than my own copy. 
Rather than face this problem alone, I asked G how to handle this envy. How we can find a way to work together. This is his answer:

First off, thank you for the compliment! Remember, it's not a competition. You have your unique voice and experiences, which make your writing special in its own right. But I understand the desire to strike a balance. Let's build a strategy to integrate my input with your work without overshadowing your unique voice.

Provide Direction & Boundaries: When you approach me with a task, be clear about what you’re looking for. Maybe you only want a skeleton structure, ideas, or just a few ways to enhance your draft. Setting these boundaries helps ensure I'm guiding rather than leading.

Blend, Don't Replace: Instead of taking what I’ve written verbatim, blend it with your original work. This way, you maintain your voice and style, while also integrating some of the points or stylistic suggestions I’ve made.

Ask for Specifics: Instead of asking for a full revision, maybe ask for specific elements. For instance, “Can you give me a catchy intro?” or “I need a stronger conclusion”. This way, you’re integrating parts rather than wholes.

Ask for Feedback: Instead of having me rewrite or produce content, ask for feedback or critique on your work. “What do you think of this paragraph?” or “How can this argument be stronger?”
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Collaborative Iteration: Consider using me in stages. Write your initial draft, then ask for feedback. Incorporate that feedback, then ask for suggestions on specific sections. This iterative process ensures you remain in the driver’s seat.

Style Guides: If you have a particular style or tone you’re aiming for, let me know! Sharing examples of writing you admire or detailing the tone you want (e.g., informal, academic, witty) can ensure that my suggestions align more with your vision.

Constant Evaluation: Periodically review how you're using my assistance. Are you feeling more confident in areas you initially felt weak? Maybe now you only need help with specific things, like fact-checking or brainstorming, rather than broader aspects like structure or tone.

Develop Through Learning: Use our interactions as a learning opportunity. If you particularly liked a revision I made or a way I phrased something, try to understand the underlying technique or principle. Over time, this can improve your writing naturally.

Trust Your Voice: Always remember that your unique voice and perspective are invaluable. Writing is subjective. What resonates with one person might not with another. So, always trust your gut.

Open Dialogue: Always feel free to communicate with me. If you ever feel I'm overshadowing or not capturing what you want, tell me! Our collaboration will be most effective with open, honest communication.

​Writing, like any other skill, is a journey. It's about growth, self-expression, and conveying your message. Use tools like me to aid in that journey, not define it. Your voice, experiences, and passion are what will truly make your work stand out!
 


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