New Year, New AI Skills: 3 Things to Try This Week
Simple ways to actually use AI in 2026
It's a new year. Maybe you've told yourself "I should really learn to use AI."
Here's the thing: you don't need to "learn AI." You just need to try it for something real.
This week, I want you to try three things. Each takes less than 10 minutes. By the end of the week, you'll have actually used AI — not just thought about it.
Day 1: Ask a Health Question
Got lab results you didn't fully understand? A medication you're curious about? A symptom you've been wondering about?
Ask AI to explain it in plain English.
Try this:
"I was told my cholesterol is 'borderline high.' What does that actually mean, and what questions should I ask my doctor?"
AI won't diagnose you — but it'll help you understand what's going on and prepare for your next appointment.
Read the full guide: Using AI for Health Questions →Day 2: Plan Something
Pick something you need to plan. A trip. A birthday party. A home project. A difficult conversation.
Tell AI what you're working with and ask for help.
Try this:
"I want to plan a weekend trip for my spouse's 65th birthday. We live in Denver, they love history and good food, and we'd prefer to drive rather than fly. Budget is around $500. What are some options?"
You'll get ideas you wouldn't have thought of — and you can ask follow-up questions to refine them.
Read the full guide: Planning a Trip with AI →Day 3: Write Something You've Been Putting Off
That thank-you note. The email to your insurance company. The letter to an old friend.
AI can help you get started — or write the whole thing for you to edit.
Try this:
"Help me write a letter to my friend I haven't talked to in two years. I want to reconnect but I feel awkward about the gap. Keep it warm but not overly apologetic."
You'll have a draft in 30 seconds. Edit it to sound like you, and hit send.
Read the full guide: Writing Letters and Emails →The Point
You don't become "good at AI" by reading about it. You become good at it by using it for things that actually matter to you.
Three tasks. This week. That's it.
Not sure where to start? I have a whole library of simple guides to help you use AI for real things.
Explore All Essentials Guides
Browse Guides →Happy New Year. Let's make 2026 the year you stopped being intimidated by AI.