23/09/2025
Join me for the free Relationship Reboot - Monday Momentum, for tips on building healthier relationships. This week I shared in the theme of Declining Intimacy and the Tech Distraction: “When AI listens better than your partner—and why that stings!”
Part of the reason I hear my clients are turning to AI is that it offers instant, non-judgmental space to share, which is something we all crave when we’re feeling unheard.
Ever notice that when opening up to a friend or partner, instead of being fully heard, you get half-listening while their eyes drift to a screen? Does it feel easier to spill your feelings to an app, journal, or AI, because you receive instant answers and reassurance?
Here are the disadvantages:
1. False sense of intimacy: AI can simulate understanding, but it doesn’t truly know you or feel with you the way a partner can.
2. Lack of accountability: AI won’t challenge you on blind spots or unhealthy patterns the way a partner (or therapist) can. Relationship skills like patience, empathy, and conflict resolution only develop when practised with real people.
3. Risk of dependency: The ease of turning to AI can make it harder to tolerate the messiness and nuance of human connection.
Here are some ideas:
1. Dinner Dialogues - Have one meal a week without screens, just sharing stories from the day.
2. Reflection Jar - Keep an actual real jar for thoughts, ideas, or appreciations; pull one out weekly and discuss it together.
3. Micro Check-Ins - Ask simple questions like “How’s your energy tank out of 10 today?" to encourage real conversations and replace AI with actual intimacy.