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Automate Small Daily Tasks with AI: Saving Time for What Matters

We all have those small, repetitive tasks that feel like they take up way more time than they should. Whether it’s figuring out what to cook, staying consistent with your workouts, or just journaling your thoughts, these little things can sometimes feel like a chore because of the mental load they take. That’s where AI can be a game-changer—taking on these small tasks, so you can focus on the things that really matter. Today, we’re going to look at how you can use AI to win back some of that mental space—and hang tight for the pro tip you can easily apply to most scenarios.

Why Small Wins Matter

We often think of AI as a tool for solving big, complex problems, but sometimes it’s the small, everyday tasks that feel the most draining. By automating these smaller tasks, AI helps free up your brainpower for the things that actually matters to you. Let’s dive into some examples of AI-powered “small wins” that can make a difference.

1. GenAI for Meal Planning & Grocery List Creation

Imagine coming home after a busy day and having no idea what to make for dinner. Instead of going straight for cereal, or worse, staring at your fridge for 20 minutes, you could use AI to plan your meals for the week and even generate a grocery list based on what you need.

How it works: GenAI tools like ChatGPT can create a meal plan based on your preferences and even suggest recipes using ingredients you already have. It can also generate a full shopping list for you to hit the grocery store.

Example prompt:

    
  Can you help me plan healthy dinners for the next 5 days, and also make a grocery list for me? You should know I already have some basics like eggs, milk, butter, and bread that I would like to finish this week.

Copy the prompt and try it with ChatGPT

Small Win: In just a few minutes, you’ve got a whole week of meals sorted, and a grocery list ready to go. No more last-minute decisions or wasting time thinking about dinner.

2. Workout Planning Made Easy

Keeping up with a workout routine can be tough, especially when you’re not sure what to do next. In my case, I usually end up skipping the gym because the thought of having to figuring out an exercise routine for the day daunts me. Then, I call my GenAI buddy, ChatGPT: it helps me create a workout plan based on my schedule, goals, preferences, and I can even specify what equipment I have access to.

How it works: Tools like ChatGPT can generate a workout plan tailored to your fitness goals. Whether you want to mix cardio and strength training or stick to quick home workouts, GenAI can design a plan for you.

Example prompt:

    
  I want to work out four days a week with a mix of cardio and strength training. Can you create a workout schedule for me? You should know I don't quite like going to the gym, so a home routine I can do right after my workday is over would be best. Also, I have a yoga mat, resistance bands, and some light dumbbells.

Copy the prompt and try it with ChatGPT

Small Win: You now have a structured workout plan that fits your goals and lifestyle, without the hassle of doing all the research yourself.

3. Daily Journal Prompts & Reflection

Journaling is one of those habits that sounds simple but can be hard to keep up with. I even have started journaling about 5 times in the last 3 years. Needless to say, all were unsuccessful. When it comes to writing daily I usually have the same questions in my mind: “What do I write about? How do I get started?” GenAI can offer personalized journal prompts that help us reflect on our day or work through our goals.

How it works: GenAI can provide daily prompts or questions tailored to whatever you’re working on—personal growth, goal setting, or even just unwinding after a long day.

Example prompt:

    
  Give me a question to help me reflect on my journal today.

Copy the prompt and try it with ChatGPT

Small Win: Instead of staring at a blank page, you get thoughtful questions that help you dive into meaningful reflection. It’s like having your own personal journal buddy to help you stay consistent.

Pro Tip: Remind your GenAI Buddy What You Did Earlier

Once you get started with automating your daily tasks for small wins, you can always add an extra sentence at the end of your prompt reminding your GenAI buddy of the outcome of the previous interaction. For instance:

  • “Can you help me plan healthy dinners for the next 5 days, and also make a grocery list for me? You should know I already have some basics like eggs, milk, butter, and bread that I would like to finish this week. Here is the meal plan we crafted last week and I wouldn’t want to repeat meals: [insert meal plan here].”
  • “I want to work out four days a week with a mix of cardio and strength training. Can you create a workout schedule for me? Remember that I don’t quite like going to the gym, so a home routine I can do right after my workday is over would be best. Also, I have a yoga mat, resistance bands, and some light dumbbells. Here is the schedule from last week so we build on top of it and not necessarily repeat the same things: [insert workout schedule here].”
  • “Give me a question to help me reflect on my journal today. Here is the one from yesterday. I really enjoyed it, so we can keep building on that today: [insert journal prompt here].”

Your Turn: Try it Out!

What if yo started today? Pick one of the examples above—or any other—and give it a try with ChatGPT. Remember you can always set the role you want it to take and the tone you want it to use. You might be surprised at how much mental space you can save!