The Oregon Trail taught us a harsh lesson: hesitation kills progress. While pioneers debated whether to ford the river or wait for better conditions, others pressed forward and claimed the best land. Today’s AI revolution presents the same choice.
We’re witnessing the greatest productivity shift since the assembly line, yet most leaders are still camping by the riverbank. They’re waiting for “perfect” AI tools, clearer regulations, or competitor validation. Meanwhile, the wagon train of opportunity rolls past them daily.
Here’s the reality: AI isn’t coming – it’s here. Companies integrating AI into their daily operations are already pulling ahead. They’re automating routine tasks, enhancing decision-making, and freeing their teams to focus on high-value work. While others wait, they’re scaling.
The “wait and see” approach that worked in slower business cycles is now a liability. In our hyper-connected economy, six months of delay equals years of competitive disadvantage. The businesses thriving tomorrow are the ones experimenting with AI today.
Like they say at Nike, “Just Do It”. I refer to this as the act of “Nike-izing”
Start with low-risk, high-impact applications. Use AI for email management, content creation, or data analysis. Don’t aim for perfection – aim for progress. Every small integration builds capability and confidence for larger implementations.
The pioneers who succeeded on the Oregon Trail weren’t the ones with the best equipment or perfect timing. They were the ones who started moving while others debated. They learned by doing, adapted quickly, and pressed forward despite uncertainty.
Your competitors are not waiting for permission to use AI. They’re not waiting for the “right” moment or the “perfect” solution. They are moving now, learning fast, and building advantages that compound daily.
The wagon of AI opportunity will not slow down for stragglers. Every day you delay implementation; you’re choosing to fall further behind. The question is not whether you’ll eventually adopt AI – it’s whether you’ll lead the charge or follow the dust trail.
Stop waiting. Start implementing. The future belongs to those who act today.
Don’t get stuck on the wrong side of the AI River rushing down the tech mountain faster than expected.
If you would like to chat about AI, let’s connect.