Leadership Lessons from Failure: Insights for the Church

The failure of a tech company that launched an ill-fitted product presents some valuable lessons for church leaders. The Humane AI Pen, dubbed the future of technology, left customers with a $700 paperweight. This was not only a business failure but a leadership failure, from which churches can glean impactful insights.

Over-promising and Under-delivering

The primary error Humane made was setting unrealistically high expectations. Much like business, faith also functions on trust. As church leaders, it's essential to set a vision that is bold and achievable. Setting and failing to meet unrealistic expectations breeds disappointment and distrust. As Jesus tells us in Luke, count the cost before building.

Hype without Substance

Humane effectively built massive hype but failed to follow through with a quality product. As church leaders, it's crucial to ensure substance over spectacle. Focus on making initiatives effective rather than just making them look exciting. Build your ministry on real, lasting impacts rather than the fleeting glow of hype.

Avoiding Responsibility for Failure

When Humane dissolved, they dodged all accountability, offering no refunds, solutions, or proper apologies. Church leaders must note: Church members don't expect perfection, but they do anticipate accountability. Ownership of mistakes and transparency in rectifying them builds trust.

Ignoring the Needs of Your People

Humane repeatedly ignored their customer's concerns and feedback. Church leaders need to listen and understand the needs of their congregation, staff, volunteers to be effective. If the majority voice concerns about something not functioning well, listen and