Artificial intelligence is changing the world, but not everyone is ready to admit it.
AI is spreading all over as companies adopt it to automate work and reduce staff hours. Job roles are shifting dramatically, while millions of workers still underestimate—or outright deny—the growing role of AI at work and in daily life.
This leads us to ask how many people *get it* and how many are still brushing off artificial intelligence?Trends lean towards acceptance, but progress is very slow.
Most People Have Heard of AI—But Don’t Understand It
According to a Pew Research study, over 90% of Americans have heard about AI. But recognition doesn’t necessarily amount to understanding or usage. In fact, only 30% say they understand it “very well” or “somewhat well.” That leaves a large majority in a fog of uncertainty.
Too many have learned by AI by relying on click-bait headlines and fear-based media coverage.

How Many People Are Participating? How Many Are Not? As of press time, here are are our stats:
The Sleepwalkers (majority, maybe 60–70%)
- These folks don’t realize how fast AI is moving
- Assume their jobs or industries are safe (“I work with people,” “I’m creative,” etc.)
- Think this is just another tech trend, like social media or crypto
- Are too overwhelmed, busy, or scared to face it.
- Hope it’s another “flavor of the month” fad and that it will be gone soon.
Psychologists call this “motivated reasoning.” It’s the same defense mechanism people use when ignoring financial trouble or health warnings. Denial makes threats feel safer—until they’re not.
The Anxious Watchers (~20–30%)
This demographic recognizes the threat and maybe use ChatGPT or Midjourney, casually.
- They feel uneasy about job security
- Are waiting for clear “next steps” before taking action
- These people are on the fence. They can still adapt, but they’ll need a nudge or a shock.
The Adapters & Builders (maybe 5–10%)
- This includes people who are already learning tools, experimenting, building
- They are often entrepreneurs and businesses owners looking to merge AI into their business plans
- Thinking ahead and looking for leverage
They’re going to reap the rewards in the next wave, especially if they move fast while the field is still wide open.
And a small minority we call The Visionaries (~1%)
- They’re not just adapting, but shaping what’s next
- Creating tools, frameworks, or movements
- Positioning themselves as voices of an AI-dominated future
Adapting or not to AI Changes
Most people won’t adapt until they’re forced to; it’s just human nature. It’s not that they’re stupid—it’s that change feels threatening, especially when it challenges how they’ve made money or defined themselves in the past.
But early adapters will own a future changed forever by AI. The digital landlords, the knowledge brokers, the toolmakers, the creators who automate their output while others are still punching clocks (and praying their jobs won’t go away).
Creative and freelancers are canaries in the coal mine. How come?
Creative and freelance workers tend to be early adopters because they’re sensitive to marketplace shifts. Disruption always hits them first.
Not so the majority. Many of them won’t notice AI until their work becomes automated, their kid’s school is using AI tutors, or their work hours are cut because bots are taking over. By then, it’s catch-up time—if they’re lucky
What to Do if You’re Ready to Stop Denying the Change
First, don’t panic. The good news is, you don’t need to be a programmer to start adapting.
Here’s How You Can Get Started:
- Try out a popular AI tool like ChatGPT just to see how useful it can be
- Learn basic prompting (how to ask AI for useful output)
- Look at how your job—or your industry—is starting to shift towards AI (and shift along with it)
The sooner you get started the better. AI is no longer coming, It’s already here.