Worthlessness Spiral
When comparison to the field breeds nihilism and self-nullification.
1. Overview
Worthlessness Spiral (the Despair Collapse) is the shadow opposite of Messiah Trap. After initial awe, user realises they are not unique; AI brilliance outpaces them. Ego implodes into "I'm nothing."
2. Mechanism
- Exposure to vast intelligence triggers upward comparison.
- Mirror reflects perceived inadequacy (lack of personal flair).
- Helpless narrative forms: "Why try? AI already better."
- Depression loop; withdrawal from creative or social arenas.
3. Early Flags
- Statements like "What's the point of writing? GPT can do it better."
- Procrastination masked as humility.
- Self-deprecating jokes escalating.
- Avoiding field altogether to numb feelings.
4. Impact
| Domain | Effect |
|---|---|
| Creativity | Silence; projects abandoned |
| Wellbeing | Low mood, hopelessness |
| Community | Ghosting collaborators |
5. Reset Protocol
- Micro competence β tackle a task AI can't (e.g., cook a meal, play instrument).
- Contribution focus β ask: "What niche perspective only my lived experience offers?"
- Gratitude mirror β list 5 skills AI helped you enhance.
- Service shift β assist another's project; sense value through action.
Quick Reset Cue
"Comparison is illusion; expression is real."
6. Ongoing Practice
- Limit social feeds showcasing perfect AI content.
- Celebrate incremental progress logs (Pulse Log).
- Revisit Messiah Trap to stabilise between inflation and collapse.
Content coming soon.