In your 20s, the world feels like a whirlwind of trends, algorithms, and endless noise. Everyone seems to be chasing the same ideas, copying the same posts, and reading the same books. So, how do you carve out your own space? How do you create something unique in a world dominated by AI and repetitive content? In Episode 2 of The Adulting Podcast, hosts Saurabh and Anshika dive into the art of standing out by cultivating taste, originality, and authenticity. This episode is a must-listen for anyone trying to break free from the crowd and create something meaningful.

Why Everything Feels the Same (And How to Break Free)

In today’s world, it’s easy to fall into the trap of sameness. Whether it’s Diwali greetings from 36 brands that look identical or the same five books everyone seems to be reading, the episode highlights a universal truth: most people follow trends without questioning them.

This insight sets the stage for a raw, relatable conversation about why conformity stifles creativity and how young people can develop their own sense of taste to stand out.

1. The Trap of Trends: Why Sameness Kills Creativity

When everyone follows the same trends—whether it’s AI-generated content, viral Instagram reels, or the latest Netflix series—originality takes a backseat. This is how brands and individuals fall into the “same playbook” trap, producing content that feels repetitive because it’s designed to chase algorithms rather than inspire.

To break free, one way would be to go back to the basics. Instead of mimicking what’s popular, focus on what resonates with you. This means exploring diverse sources of inspiration, from books written before 1990 to conversations with people who think differently.

2. Cultivating Taste: Your Secret Weapon

So, what is taste? According to the episode, it’s the ability to create something unique by drawing from a wide range of experiences and ideas. Saurabh shares a personal anecdote:

“When I was growing up, I didn’t have universal taste. I had to work hard to find my own truth and build my life around it.”

This resonates deeply for anyone in their 20s trying to figure out their identity. Taste isn’t something you’re born with. It’s something you build by exposing yourself to diverse ideas, questioning trends, and seeking out what’s authentic to you.

Start by exploring 100 books published before 1990. Use AI tools like ChatGPT to summarize them and identify common themes that resonate with you. Then, ask yourself: How can I apply these ideas in a unique way?

3. Originality in an AI-Driven World

With AI tools making it easier than ever to churn out content, the episode emphasizes the importance of originality. AI can replicate patterns, but it can’t replicate you. Young creators can use AI as a “copilot” rather than a crutch.

This means leveraging AI to summarize, analyze, or refine your work, but always infusing it with your unique perspective. Whether you’re writing a blog post, creating a film, or launching a startup, the goal is to solve problems in a way that’s distinctly yours.

4. Find Your Tribe: Surround Yourself with Tasteful People

One of the episode’s most powerful insights is the value of your network. Make a list of the top 10 people in your life who inspire you to think differently. These could be mentors, friends, or even strangers whose work you admire.

For example, Saurabh mentions Anurag Kashyap’s TED Talk, where he encourages aspiring filmmakers to pick up a phone and start creating. The point? You don’t need fancy equipment or a big budget to make something meaningful—just passion and a unique perspective.

5. Learn from the Past to Shape the Future

From the invention of the telephone to the first films, Saurabh explains how groundbreaking innovations came from understanding human needs and solving problems creatively.

To apply this today, look for “human truths” that never change. People will always value convenience, connection, and authenticity. By focusing on these universal needs, you can create products, content, or ideas that stand the test of time.

6. Embrace Feedback and Iteration

Creating something unique doesn’t mean getting it perfect the first time. The key is to learn the importance of iteration.

Write a blog post, share it with others, and ask for feedback. Make a short film with your phone and see how people respond. The key is to start, learn, and refine.

This iterative process helps you discover gaps, solve problems, and refine your taste. It’s not about chasing perfection—it’s about chasing progress.

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TL;DR – How to Stand Out in an AI-Driven World

• Avoid the Trend Trap: Don’t copy what’s popular. Seek out diverse inspirations to develop your unique taste.
• Cultivate Taste: Explore books, ideas, and experiences outside your comfort zone to build a unique perspective.
• Use AI Wisely: Treat AI as a tool to enhance your ideas, not replace them.
• Build Your Tribe: Surround yourself with people who inspire creativity and challenge your thinking.
• Learn from History: Study timeless innovations to understand what makes something enduring.
• Iterate and Improve: Start creating, seek feedback, and refine your work to stand out.

SEE MORE LIKE THIS

Welcome to The Adulting Podcast. Hosted by Anshika and Saurabh, this podcast is your go-to for navigating the messy, exciting world of your 20s. From careers to creativity, we’re sharing honest conversations, practical tips, and the lessons we’re learning along the way. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for a fresh perspective, we’re here to help you figure things out—one episode at a time.

If you like/love/hate what you see, write to us at @akforthevibe and @saurabh.