Episode 485: Dump Your Overwhelm on the AI: Planning Your 2026 Writing Goals (Part 2)

Have you ever found yourself explaining the same things to AI over and over again? Or watched your AI conversation go completely off the rails after too much back-and-forth? You're not alone—and there's a better way.

In this second part of our conversation about using AI responsibly as a writer, Kathi and Roger Lipp dive into the practical side of working with AI tools. They break down the difference between conversations and projects, explain when it's time to hit that "new conversation" button, and share a simple folder system that can save you hours of frustration.

What You'll Learn in This Episode

• The difference between AI conversations and projects—and when to use each

• Warning signs that your AI has "gone over a cliff" and it's time to start fresh

• A simple folder system that keeps your AI grounded in your goals

• The truth about AI privacy settings and what they actually protect

• Why 5-minute writing blocks might be exactly what you need right now

• The difference between accountability partners and critique groups

Key Takeaways

Keep your AI organized: Create a folder on your computer with your avatar, goals, and Create Build Serve plans. Drag that folder into new conversations to ground the AI in your work.

Know when to start fresh: When the AI starts giving nonsense answers and you find yourself getting angry, it's time to hit that plus button and start a new conversation.

Make your plans visible: Don't leave your goals buried in AI chats. Transfer them to a chart behind your computer, a paper calendar, or wherever you'll actually see them daily.

Start small: If you're not finding time to write now, start with 5-minute blocks. You're not getting anything done with zero minutes—so five is infinitely better.

Ready for Real Accountability?

As Kathi says in this episode, "AI is not your accountability friend." If you're looking for the structure, expert coaching, and community that actually keeps you moving forward, check out The Collective—our Red House Writers membership. Right now it's just $79/month or $499/year, your rate is locked in for life, and there's a 30-day money-back guarantee. Learn more at kathi.link/collective.