Since 2025 is on the edge and looking back, I can honestly say I’ve been using a ton of AI tools this year and I have zero regrets about it. I used to be skeptical, but after diving in, I’ve seen how much they’ve improved my workflow.

I’m sure a lot of you have heard of these tools already, but if you haven’t tried them yet, you’re missing out. Here's a quick rundown of the AI tools that actually worked for me this year, and why I think they’ll be even more useful in 2026.

1. Headshotphoto.io (AI Headshots) I used to dread scheduling So, 2025 is almost on photoshoots for professional headshots. But HeadshotPhoto.io? It gave me 40+ real, professional-looking photos in minutes. No awkward poses, just easy uploads, and the quality was on point. It’s saved me a ton of time and money perfect for LinkedIn or team profiles.
2. ChatGPT / Copilot I’ll admit, I was hesitant about using AI for writing. But ChatGPT and Copilot have become my right hand for drafting emails, brainstorming ideas, and writing blog posts. No more staring at a blank page. I can get the first draft down in a few minutes, and tweak it from there. It’s saved me so much time.
3. Canva AI Designing used to be such a hassle, but Canva AI has been a total lifesaver. I can create social media posts, presentations, and graphics in no time. It’s like having a professional designer without needing the design degree. For anyone who needs quick and decent designs, it’s a no-brainer.
4. Zapier & Make If you’re working with multiple apps, Zapier and Make are a game-changer. They’ve automated my workflow between tools like CRM, email marketing, and more. No more copying data from one tool to another. It just happens automatically now, and I don’t have to think about it. It’s one of those tools that works in the background and saves hours every week.
5. Perplexity AI When it comes to finding insights from data, Perplexity AI is like a mini Google on steroids. I don’t have to sift through a million articles to find answers anymore. It helps me extract info fast and make decisions quickly. If you deal with data, you need this.
6. HeyGen Here’s the fun one. HeyGen lets you create AI-generated videos just by typing in a script. No filming, no editing. I’ve used it for a few LinkedIn videos, and it’s honestly impressive how real they look. It’s not replacing professional video shoots, but it’s perfect for quick, engaging content.

So, yeah, AI has been a huge help this year. From headshots to content creation to workflow automation, it’s made my work life so much easier. And I’m confident that these tools will only get better in 2026. If you haven’t explored them yet, maybe now’s the time.

What AI tools have you found useful this year? Would love to hear your thoughts.