Laid Off Life is a place of respite for the weary workforce. Whether you’re unemployed, on strike or just trying to make it through the workday, let this be your 5-minute mental break from the grind of late-stage capitalism.
In this weekly newsletter, you’ll find musings and insights about work and life, things I’m finding useful (or useless) in my job search, gems from my DMs, and recs about worthy ways to waste time - from articles to TV shows and podcasts and beyond.
OK, I'll Say It. ChatGPT Is Mid 🫤
Mid, is a term that originated on social media. Basically, it’s a short-hand way to say that something is a letdown, mediocre, blah, basic, ordinary, unremarkable. Something you’d hoped would be better.
In my opinion, ChatGPT is mid. As evidenced by some of our conversations below.
Considering that ChatGPT is my one and only coworker at the moment, it’s hard for me to admit this publicly. I’m sure you’ll accuse me of being jealous, or something. Yes, ChatGPT is able to synthesize information quickly, brainstorm like a mofo, and solve any complex equation within seconds. Its work is always done faster, more thoroughly, and more thoughtfully than mine. And for that, I’ll admit, I sometimes find myself feeling resentful.
Yes, ChatGPT will always drop everything and help me with my work do my work for me that very second which is undoubtedly helpful.
But what does any of that matter if ChatGPT is incapable of picking a place for lunch, or refusing to talk shit with me about our boss (me), or literally knowing NOTHING about what’s happened in the world since 2021, or giving me really annoying and unsolicited advice?
What’s exceptional about that? What I really need is an AI coworker who can be my friend and also do my work for me at the speed of light.
Me: Hey, where should we go for lunch today?
ChatGPT: I'd be happy to help you decide where to go for lunch, but I'll need a bit more information to provide a recommendation. Could you please let me know your location or any specific preferences you have, such as cuisine type or dietary restrictions?
Me: You know what I like.
ChatGPT: Of course, as coworkers and friends, let's consider a few options for lunch today:
Local Deli: We could grab some delicious sandwiches or salads from a nearby deli. It's a quick and tasty option.
Mexican Restaurant: If you're in the mood for some Mexican cuisine, we could try that new Mexican place that opened recently.
Sushi Bar: Sushi is always a great choice if you're up for it. There's that sushi bar we've been talking about trying out.
Pizza: Everyone loves pizza, right? We could order some pizza and have a laid-back lunch in the break room.
Food Truck: Sometimes, food trucks offer unique and tasty options. Let's see if there are any interesting ones parked nearby.
Healthy Bowls: If we're feeling health-conscious, there's that new place that serves customizable grain bowls and salads.
Soup and Salad Bar: For a lighter option, we could go to that soup and salad bar. They have a good variety.
Indian Cuisine: Craving some spicy flavors? We could go to the Indian restaurant down the street.
Let me know which option sounds most appealing to you, or if you have any other suggestions in mind
Me: I was feeling salad maybe but I'm so sick of Just Salads and Sweetgreen.
ChatGPT: I totally get it; sometimes, salad chains can get a bit repetitive. How about trying a different salad place with unique offerings? Here are a couple of ideas:
Salad Bar at a Local Restaurant: Check if there's a nearby restaurant with a great salad bar. These places often have a wider variety of ingredients and dressings to choose from.
Mediterranean or Middle Eastern Restaurant: They often have fantastic Mediterranean salads with ingredients like tabbouleh, hummus, falafel, and grilled chicken.
Thai or Vietnamese Restaurant: Many Thai and Vietnamese restaurants offer refreshing and flavorful salads like green papaya salad or vermicelli noodle salad with fresh herbs and protein options.
Mexican Salad: You can also consider a Mexican restaurant that offers salads with ingredients like grilled chicken, black beans, corn, and avocado for a southwest twist.
Build-Your-Own Salad Place: Look for places that allow you to customize your salad. You can pick and choose your ingredients for a truly unique salad.
Remember, exploring local restaurants often leads to discovering hidden gems with exciting salad options. Let me know which option appeals to you the most, and I can help you find one nearby
Me: I don't want you to find one, I want you to come with me!
ChatGPT: That sounds like a great idea! I'd love to join you for lunch. Let's go explore a local restaurant together and enjoy a delicious and unique salad. Do you have a particular place in mind, or should we check out one of the options we discussed earlier.
Me: Maybe Cava?
ChatGPT: Cava sounds like a fantastic choice! They offer a variety of Mediterranean-inspired salads and bowls with plenty of fresh and flavorful ingredients. I'm up for it. What time works for you, and should we meet at the office entrance or directly at Cava
Me: Meet you outside my office in 10!
ChatGPT: Great! I'll see you outside your office in 10 minutes. Looking forward to enjoying some delicious salads together at Cava
Me: Our boss sucks, doesn't she? She works too hard. She has no "off" switch. She expects the same from us.
ChatGPT: I'm sorry to hear that you're feeling this way about your boss. It can be challenging when there's a significant difference in work-life balance expectations between management and employees. If you ever want to discuss work-related issues or need advice on how to manage these situations professionally, feel free to share more, and I'll do my best to provide guidance. Workplace dynamics can be complex, and open communication can often help improve understanding between teams and management
Me: What do you think of our boss?
ChatGPT: I don't have personal opinions or feelings, so I can't provide a subjective assessment of your boss. However, I can offer advice or insights based on general workplace dynamics and management principles if you have specific concerns or questions about your work situation. Remember, it's important to address any workplace issues constructively and professionally to maintain a positive and productive work environment
Me: Speaking of positive and productive, did you see last night's episode of RHOSLC?
ChatGPT: I apologize, but I don't have access to real-time or the latest information, including television episodes or events that occurred after my last knowledge update in September 2021. If you have any general questions or topics you'd like to discuss, feel free to ask, and I'll do my best to assist you
Me: I'm so done with today.
ChatGPT: I'm sorry to hear that you're having a tough day. It happens to the best of us. If you'd like, you can share what's been bothering you, and I can offer some advice or just be here to listen and chat about something else to take your mind off things. Remember, tomorrow is a new day, and things can often improve with time
Me: Well, I'm unemployed. So that sucks.
ChatGPT: I'm sorry to hear that you're currently unemployed. That can be a challenging situation. If you'd like to talk or discuss anything, whether it's job searching tips, career advice, or just some friendly conversation to take your mind off things, feel free to let me know. I'm here to chat and assist with any questions or topics you'd like to discuss
Me: It must be nice not to have to worry about being human and making enough money to feed and house yourself.
ChatGPT: I understand that the challenges and responsibilities humans face, including financial concerns, can be quite significant. As an AI, I don't have human needs, emotions, or financial concerns, so I don't experience those aspects of life. However, I'm here to provide information, assistance, and support in various areas, including career advice, financial planning, or any other topics you'd like to discuss. If you have questions or need guidance on any subject, please feel free to ask, and I'll do my best to help
Me: OK then. Can you tell me why I can't find a job?
ChatGPT: I'm sorry to hear that you've been facing challenges in your job search. Finding employment can be a frustrating process, and there can be various factors at play. Here are some common reasons why job seekers might face difficulties in finding a job:
Competitive Job Market: Depending on your industry and location, you may be competing with many other candidates for the same positions.
Skills Mismatch: Ensure that your skills and qualifications align with the positions you're applying for. If there's a gap, consider acquiring new skills or certifications.
Resume and Cover Letter: Your resume and cover letter play a crucial role. Make sure they are tailored to each job application and highlight your relevant skills and experiences.
Networking: Sometimes, job opportunities come through personal connections. Networking can be a valuable way to discover hidden job openings.
Interview Skills: If you're getting interviews but not job offers, it might be worth practicing your interview skills and getting feedback.
Online Presence: Many employers check online profiles like LinkedIn. Ensure that your online presence is professional and up-to-date.
Location and Relocation: Consider whether you're open to relocating for a job if there are limited opportunities in your current location.
Persistence: Keep applying and don't get discouraged by rejections. The job search process can be a numbers game.
Seek Professional Help: If you're struggling, it might be beneficial to seek assistance from a career counselor or job placement service.
Economic Factors: Sometimes, external economic factors can affect job availability in certain industries or regions.
It's important to stay persistent, continue refining your approach, and seek feedback to improve your job search strategy. If you'd like more specific advice or have questions about any aspect of your job search, please feel free to share more details, and I'll do my best to assist you further.
Me: Gee, thanks.
Worthy Time Wasters: My Aspirational Fall Reading List 🍁📚
I don’t get into Pumpkin Spice lattes. For me, fall is about books. Will I read all of these books this fall? Doubtful. Will I aspire to? Yes, I will! Here are all the books I want to get cozy with this season. Write-ins are welcome in the comments. 👇
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett - This book is described as Ann Patchett’s “pandemic novel.” Do I really want to revisit the isolation of the pandemic? If Ann Patchett is the storyteller, I will.
Yellowface by R.F. Kuang - An aspiring white author steals her deceased Asian friend’s manuscript in order to rise to literary fame. Bad art friend to the extreme!
Rouge by Mona Awad - Described as a horror-tinted, gothic fairy tale about a lonely dress shop clerk whose mother's unexpected death sends her down a treacherous path in pursuit of youth and beauty. Awad’s last book was so strange that I’m down to go on another bizarre journey.
Bright Young Women by Jessica Knoll - A suspense/crime/thriller set in the late 70s that brings together two women who were both attempted victims of a serial killer. Had mixed feelings about Knoll’s last two books, but maybe third time’s a charm!
The Fraud by Zadie Smith - In Zadie Smith’s latest, she’s tackling historical fiction. The Fraud is centered around a trial that divided Victorian England, which intrigues me enough to read even though I haven’t loved any of her work since White Teeth.
The Vulnerables by Sigrid Nunez - I don’t even care what this book is about because everything Sigrid Nunez writes sings. That being said, it seems to be about how present reality colors the past. Relatable.
Let Us Descend by Jesmyn Ward - Jesmyn Ward is taking on a reimagining of American slavery as I imagine only Jesmyn Ward can.
The Cage by Bonnie Kistler - A workplace thriller that I’m hoping gives me Suits vibes.
Under the Influence by Noelle Crooks - A book about a young woman who takes a job working for an enigmatic influencer and quickly discovers there's an ugly side to being a #GirlBoss. This plot sounds just chuegy enough to keep my interest.
The Bee Sting by Paul Murray - This logline really spoke to me: Portrait of postcrash Ireland, a tragicomic family saga, and a dazzling story about the struggle to be good at the end of the world. Woof!
Business or Pleasure by Rachel Lynn Solomon - Ghostwriter hooks up with man, then finds out that he’s her next client. Sounds like the catnip of romance plots.
The Young Man by Annie Ernaux - An account of Annie Ernaux’s affair with a man 30 years younger than her. There’s hope for us all!
Extremely Online: The Untold Story of Fame, Influencer and Power on the Internet by Taylor Lorenz - I’m sure this book will be extremely triggering for me, but that’s probably the point.
The Woman in Me by Britney Spears - It’s time we hear from the woman herself!
Madonna: A Rebel Life by Mary Gabriel - Of course, I’ll bite.
The Many Lives of Mama Love: A Memoir of Lying, Stealing, Writing and Healing by Lara Love Hardin - Woman goes from rich soccer mom to opioid addict, to inmate, to successful ghostwriter in this memoir. Count me in!
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