As more and more AI apps enter the realm of personalised guidance, we're becoming more susceptible to the Barnum effect.

We accept generalised advice that applies to almost everyone else as personal observations.

For example, you wrote an entry in one of those AI-powered journal apps, like Dot, that you've been feeling demotivated at work lately.

Trying to come up with personalised advice the journal app writes: "Your feelings of lost motivation may stem from a deep-seated need to make a significant impact in your field."

This is the Barnum effect in full swing.

While the statement is valid and relatable, the loss of motivation you feel right now might be different.

You might just be burned out after an exhausting project, or the work itself doesn't excite you.

Not understanding the root cause of our feelings and directing our energy into solving a vague problem will only cause further dissatisfaction.

So, when you come across these generalised statements from an AI app or a personality test that makes you feel "this is me", pause and reflect on whether this observation really holds for you.

It might be a generic observation that applies as much to the person sitting next to you as to yourself.

Remember the Barnum effect and approach "personalised" advice from AI apps with a bit of scepticism.

Now, while AI apps offer advice on a surface level, a real coach like Sonya can help you probe deep into your work problems and lost sense of purpose and find actionable solutions.

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