How AI + IT (Intentional Transformation) = The IT Factor
Disclaimer: Some of the resources mentioned in this post are ones I haven’t personally used
but have researched thoroughly or been recommended by trusted peers.
Today, AI is more than just a buzzword. It is a game-changer! But this is true for any new technology that enters the world—especially one as powerful as AI.
In the early 1970s when personal computers were introduced initial fears were that they were too complex, unnecessary for everyday life, and a threat to jobs. And yet, our lives have transformed because PCs empowered us and laid the foundation for the digital revolution. The 1990s brought widespread use of the internet with valid concerns of privacy, addiction, misinformation, and social isolation. With global collaboration and access to knowledge, where would any of us be without our smartphones? By putting computing power, education, and connectivity in the palms of billions of peoples hands, this technology has forever changed how we live our lives.
It's normal to feel a mix of curiosity and quite possibly even fear when it comes to what will happen—is happening—with AI. I know I’ve been a bit intimidated by it myself! There may be a sense of losing control, of machines replacing humans and of values being compromised. All of these are valid concerns, and in some cases, a fact. But like any tool, AI reflects the intention of the person using it. In the hands of someone committed to growth, it can become a catalyst—not a replacement—for transformation. Nothing will ever replace true human connection—something that I believe we all crave as a part of our human nature.
So what if, instead of resisting AI out of fear, we embraced this new chapter of advancement with intention? What if we saw it not as a threat, but as a tool that can amplify and help us reach our goals, an accelerant to our next level of leadership when used mindfully? Whether you're leading a team, a boardroom, or your own life, here’s a truth: to achieve your IT Factor—more presence, confidence, authenticity and influence—requires Intentional Transformation (IT). Intentional Transformation is a deliberate connection of your physical, mental and relational self and when that alignment happens, an inner energy radiates outward. By wisely adding in some of the AI tools that are available, there is an opportunity to make even more powerful changes in your life.
Here’s how to harness AI to unlock the IT Factor.
1. PHYSICAL: The Foundation of Energy and Presence
Your body is the first thing people notice, and the last thing they forget. It sets the foundation for your IT Factor. 65% of communication is non-verbal. But this is not just about the right posture or wearing the right outfit, it’s about the energy you create and project: confident or hesitant, authentic or insincere. It’s also about how you take care of your physical body. Daily movement is more than just exercise. It can boost clarity, brain function, and help you unlock the pathways where you might be stuck. When you're physically aligned, your presence becomes magnetic.
AI-powered tools for physical alignment:
Oura Ring, WHOOP, or AI fitness apps can help you monitor your energy, sleep, and recovery.These insights help you optimize wellness and build consistent magnetic presence.
2. MENTAL: The Inner GPS of Growth and Belief
A growth mindset is essential. It’s not enough to want to have more confidence, or to want to have more presence, you have to believe it, embody it, and reinforce it daily. Belief without a strategy is just noise. Your inner dialogue must be managed with intention. Our brains cycle through 50,000 thoughts a day. And guess what? 95% of them are the same ones on repeat. That inner dialogue shapes your reality. If your self-talk is negative, if you’re constantly telling yourself, “I’m not good enough,” “I’ll never be ready”—those beliefs get hardwired into action.
Ask daily:
“What am I believing right now? Is it really true or a limiting belief?
Is it moving me forward or holding me back?”
AI-powered tools for mindset alignment:
Reflectly or ChatGPT for daily journaling prompts: These tools help reframe self-talk and disrupt limiting patterns.
3. RELATIONAL: The Mirror of Self-Awareness
The relationship you have with yourself influences every other relationship in your life. You can’t expect to lead others if you are not aware of your own strengths and weaknesses or don’t live out your core values. Your values, emotional intelligence—combined with self-awareness and authenticity—is your superpower. Authentic leadership isn’t about being perfect. It’s knowing your truth and communicating it clearly which results in strengthening relationships, managing conflict, and inspiring collaboration.
AI tools for relational intelligence:
Crystal uses AI to analyze LinkedIn profiles and improve interpersonal communication based on personality insights. People I know who have experimented with Crystal have found it helpful in team dynamics and client prep.*
The Integration: AI as an Ally in Leadership
AI won’t transform you, but AI tools can accelerate your intentional transformation and assist in aligning your physical, mental, and relational self, unlocking your IT Factor—all leading to more confidence, presence, authenticity and influence.
If you enjoyed this blog post, here are some other resources you might enjoy:
My book, "Dare To Own You: Taking Your Authenticity and Dreams Into Your Next Chapter": The winner of two Feathered Quill Book awards, and an Book Excellence award, and recommended by Forbes in 2022 as “a teaching memoir”.
My podcast, the "Live Your Best Life with Liz Brunner" podcast: An award-winning and internationally streamed show that highlights powerful stories of re-creation and reinvention from guests who have taken their life experiences, and used that knowledge to create their “next chapters” and live their best lives.
My work as a keynote speaker, executive coach and communication expert. You can read more about more of my services here.
Interested in Taking Yourself or Your Executive Team to the Next Level?
Brunner Communications assists high-profile individuals and organizations in sharpening and developing top level business communication, executive presence, and public speaking skills. Our passionate team provides one-on-one executive business coaching, and runs specialized business workshops. Through customized training, clients learn the necessary skills to become great communicators and build a marketable reputation.