🔑 The Future-Proof Skill You Already Have (But Might Be Ignoring)
Communication is your fingerprint
"Have something to say—and say it."
There’s a lot of noise right now about what careers are secure for the future.
Will AI take over our jobs?
What will humans still do better?
It’s an important conversation. And it leads to a bigger question:
👉 What can humans do that machines can’t?
Or at the very least—what can humans still do better?
What Makes You Unique?
As I think about this, I reflect on my own life and work. I consider the skills that have made me… well, me. The things I’ve relied on through various chapters of life—from music and education to real estate and entrepreneurship.
I’m sure my self-perception isn’t flawless (whose is?), but I’ve circled the sun more than a few times. And with that comes the confidence to own both my strengths and my flaws. That self-knowledge is fuel. It helps me grow, create, and do work that matters to me.
At the Core: Creativity
Creativity has always been my engine.
It’s how I think, how I work, and how I express.
"Brainstorming, building, digging into details—creating something meaningful out of nothing—that’s where I come alive."
Even if my ideas aren’t always groundbreaking, they’re mine.
Back in my performing days, this was a given. Your interpretation had to be personal. It had to sound like you. No one else could replicate your voice, your timing, your presence.
It was your fingerprint.
In education, training, or curriculum development, it’s a little harder to leave that same imprint. So many ideas feel recycled. But still, I try to infuse my point of view. I believe that’s what makes it resonate.
The Skill That Stays: Communication
So what’s the one skill I believe we should all invest in—whether we’re in tech, sales, education, or advising the next generation?
Communication.
We all do it differently. And even though AI can assist, amplify, and streamline how we communicate—it can’t (and shouldn’t) replace our voice.
"Use AI to become clearer, not to become someone else."
Yes, AI can learn your tone, your language patterns. It can save you time.
But it’s still your job to show up, shape the message, and say what only you can say.
And in case you need a little comic relief, here’s how that sounds in the voice of Donald Trump:
“Look, it’s all about communication. Nobody talks about it, but it’s true—we all do it differently. Very differently. And now we have AI. Some people are afraid of it—I’m not. It’s a great tool. Tremendous. But here’s the thing: you still have control. Total control. You’ve got to make it your own. Not someone else’s. Don’t let it turn you into a copy of someone else—it happens! But AI, if you use it right, it learns your voice. Your beautiful voice. It can make you faster, smarter, clearer—better. But don’t let it silence you. Don’t give away your voice. That’s a mistake. A big mistake.”
Your Voice is Your Future
My suggestion? Learn how to present yourself.
Learn how to speak up. Write something. Share your thoughts. Even if it scares you—do it anyway.
"Your voice is your fingerprint for the future. No one else has it."
Like dance, music, or acting, communicating well is a learned skill. Some have a natural gift. But everyone can improve. And with practice, it becomes a powerful form of creative freedom—the ultimate self-expression.
So if you’re wondering how to future-proof your value, or guide your children on what matters most in an AI-shaped world…
Start here: communicate clearly and honestly.
Say what you mean. Say it well.
And remember what I’ll always say:
“Have something to say—and say it.”
Well said, Ruth. There..I said it !!