OpenClaw creator’s advice to AI builders is to be more playful and allow yourself time to improve

Peter Steinberger, the mastermind behind the popular AI tool OpenClaw, now a part of OpenAI, has shared valuable advice for budding AI developers. He emphasizes the importance of exploration and creativity in the development process, rather than aiming for immediate perfection. Reflecting on his journey, Steinberger remarked, "I wish I could say I had a unified plan from the start, but much of it was about exploring possibilities." His initial attempts included creating a tool for WhatsApp, which he later paused, anticipating that existing AI labs would develop something similar. "I experimented a lot. My goal was to inspire and have fun," he recalled. By November, realizing that no one had created the tools he envisioned, he set out to develop the prototype that became OpenClaw. A pivotal moment came during a trip to Marrakesh when the convenience of his tool made a significant impact in a location with unreliable internet. Steinberger found that OpenClaw simplified tasks like finding restaurants and texting friends. As he delved deeper into AI, he noted how modern models excel at problem-solving autonomously. "They can generate solutions without direct programming," he explained. Through his development journey, Steinberger's workflow evolved, and he advises others to be patient, highlighting that skill development takes time. He cautioned against the notion of "vibe coding," suggesting that many approach AI development with unrealistic expectations. "Learning to code with AI is like learning to play guitar; it takes time and practice to get good," he stated. Instead, he encourages a playful and exploratory mindset. "If you have a project you've always wanted to create, pursue it. Experimenting and having fun are crucial, especially with the rising concerns about AI taking over jobs," Steinberger concluded. He believes that those who embrace creativity and problem-solving will remain in demand in an evolving job landscape.