When overhauling a workflow, don't just think "automate." Categorize each step into one of four buckets: delete it entirely, handle with simple deterministic code, use a judgment-based AI agent, or reserve for a human decision-maker (especially for high-risk approvals or negotiations).

The most critical skill in the age of AI is dedicating time to "work on your job," not just in it. This involves actively observing your daily workflows, identifying repetitive or low-value tasks, and then methodically building AI agents to automate them, thereby creating leverage.

If you struggle to see your work in terms of 'workflows,' try this: at the end of each day, tell an AI like Codex what you did. After a week, ask it to analyze the transcripts and suggest the most repetitive, time-consuming tasks to automate first.

Many companies rush to automate messy processes, which only locks in inefficiency. Instead, learn and refine the process by doing it manually first, as early Amazon and DoorDash did. Only automate once the system is optimized, using technology to speed up good systems, not paper over bad ones.

A practical framework for developing agentic AI is to first map the human workflow. Break down the task into discrete steps, identify which ones can be automated, ensure the necessary data is available, and then build the underlying tools and code blocks. Don't start with the technology; start with the human process.

The biggest gains from AI come not from automating steps in an existing process, but from starting with the desired outcome and co-creating a new workflow with AI. This "first principles" approach leverages AI's capabilities far more effectively than piecemeal automation.

The journey to a comprehensive company operating system doesn't start with a grand design. Instead, identify one highly tedious, repeatable task, like triaging Slack requests, and build a simple automation for it. This creates immediate value and momentum.

Instead of starting with a tool like Zapier and searching for ideas, first meticulously document every step of a specific workflow. This reveals the actual opportunities for automation and prevents "blank cursor syndrome."

To truly leverage AI, professionals must change their approach to tasks. Instead of automatically assuming personal responsibility, the first question should be whether an AI tool can perform it. This proactive mindset shift unlocks significant productivity gains by automating routine work.