3 Everyday AI Tools I Use to Grow My Career as an Entrepreneur
3 Everyday AI Tools I Use to Grow My Career as an Entrepreneur
Let’s face it, AI can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re still figuring out how it fits into your career. But here’s the thing: you don’t need to be a tech expert to start using it. You just need to be curious and consistent. A third of AI users today aren’t CEOs or developers; they’re everyday professionals choosing to work smarter.
When I started learning about AI, it wasn’t through a fancy course or company training. I was simply curious about how it could help me show up better. That mindset shift changed everything. It’s helped me deliver 13 keynotes around the world in 2024, collaborate on international campaigns, and hold conversations with some of the most forward-thinking leaders in tech.
Today, I use AI to prompt ideas, sharpen communication, and create real impact. No clout-chasing – just intention and growth.
Here are three AI tools I use every day that help me achieve the results I want:
Sonya Barlow x Kagi Maldives Resort & Spa Hotel
1. ChatGPT – for brain-dumping and clarity
Whether I’m planning a keynote or brainstorming content, ChatGPT helps me structure thoughts, prompt new ideas and build narratives quickly. As someone with ADHD, it can be hard to organise my thoughts, so it’s helpful to have a smart assistant to bounce ideas off, without the pressure of perfection.
Top Tip: Use it to get started, not to finish. Your voice matters, and AI is here to support it, not replace it.
2. Grammarly – to polish your writing
Once the words are down, Grammarly helps me tighten them up. It’s great for improving tone, fixing any grammar slips, and making sure what I say actually makes sense to the reader.
Top Tip: Focus on communication, not perfection. Let AI handle the small stuff so you can focus on the bigger picture.
3. Google Docs – to transcribe my thoughts
Some of my best ideas come when I’m walking, talking or travelling. I use Google Docs with voice typing to capture ideas as they come. Later on, while editing them, I'll often use AI's help to enhance flow or structure.
Top Tip: Don’t let great ideas slip away just because you're not at a desk. Voice tools let you create whenever inspiration hits
For a more deep-dive into using AI for career growth, check out my video on How to ACTUALLY Use AI to Future-Proof Your Career 🤖.
Takeaway
AI is only as powerful as the intention behind it. Before diving into new tools, take a step back and ask yourself:
What are your natural skills?
Where are your knowledge gaps?
Can AI help solve a real problem?
And can you invest time into learning, testing, and even failing?
Sometimes, it’s not about achieving a perfect result – it’s about experimenting, learning fast, and adjusting. Just pick one tool, practise consistently, and see how it supports your growth.
Key Piece of Advice
'AI isn’t here to replace you. It’s here to amplify you.'
And remember: lean into your networks, both online and offline. The best ideas often come from cross-pollinating with others and saying: 'They’re doing something cool. Why don’t we try it too?'
So What?
Using AI doesn’t mean becoming robotic. It means being more you, but with clarity, creativity and confidence. You don’t need to be an expert to get started. You just need to be curious, intentional and open to growing.
Ordinary people are already leveraging AI to do extraordinary things. So, why not you too?
Sonya Barlow is an award-winning entrepreneur, presenter and author with over 100K followers. She hosts her self-titled YouTube show "The Sonya Barlow Show", authored the business book "Unprepared to Entrepreneur" and runs a business inclusion consultancy and networking app the "LMF Network". You can work with Sonya for campaigns, content and conversation. Connect via email - Hello@SonyaBarlow.Co.Uk.