Hi Reader,

It's your job to bring your best ideas to the table as a leader. On a recent very important project, though, 100% of my ideas didn't win. And I'm the CEO of our company.

The project? The cover design for my new book on AI and the Future Church that releases September 15th.

Naturally, the publisher asked me what I envisioned for the cover. I really liked my last two books covers and thought we'd continue a theme.

So I pitched some ideas (like a gear shift as the key metaphor). After all, the binoculars on the cover of Didn't See It Coming and the fuel gauge on the cover of At Your Best were pretty cool. See? At least I think so.

My ideas didn't win.

What happens to you, when, as a leader, your ideas don't resonate?

First, it's easy to think "well, it's my book, I get to pick, right?"

There's also the HIPPO factor. Decisions tend to go the way of the Highest Paid Person's Opinion. That would be me, or you if you're the Lead Pastor, CEO or Executive Director.

So why is there no gear shift on the cover of AI and the Future Church?

Here's the truth.

1. I'm not a designer.
2. I'm better at words than I am at graphics. That's an understatement.
3. I'm not in the industry and don't know what "works."
4. I'm 20-30 years older than the rest of my team and most of my readers.

My team had some incredible input, as did the publisher.

When we saw the initial design that became the book cover, it quickly became my favorite. Same with the team.

I let the team give their input on fonts, kerning, coloring etc until we got a cover we all loved.

“ Nearly none of this cover was my idea.

I love the cover. And almost none of it originated with me.

So what can you learn?

1. The best idea usually isn't your idea, it's the best idea.
2. A small group of talented people will always help you make better decisions.
3. Letting younger leaders decide is a great strategy not just for the future, but for today.
4. You'll be surprised how much you like a great decision you didn't make if it's the right decision.

So check out my book cover. I didn't come up with it, and I love it.

The question for you is: what decisions are you trying to make that would be better if someone else made it?

Cheering for you!

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On June 18th, Patrick Lencioni from Working Genius is hosting a free, 60-minute live event called The Six Types of Marriage Genius.

He and his wife will host you as you explore how the Working Genius model can help you avoid unnecessary and painful misunderstandings, and learn how to appreciate what the other person brings to the table.

It's one hour, it's free and if you're married, it's probably one of the most useful investments you can make this month.
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Learn More

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Steps to grow this week

New Video ​Available Now

Are Pastor's Losing Their Ability to Preach? Watch →​

Podcast ​Tuesday

David Epstein on How Creativity Actually Works and Why Constraints Set You Free. Subscribe →​ ​

The Art of Preaching ​Available Now

A Proven Method to Transform Your Preaching. Start Now →​

Pre-Order ​September

AI and The Future Church is available for pre-order. ​Learn more →​

On The Rise ​Friday

Fresh Barna data tells a complex (but encouraging) story of how pastors are doing. Plus, 49 fun things to do. Check your inbox on Friday!

Ready to stop figuring it out alone? The Art of Leadership Academy gives you proven guidance for YOUR church — leadership development and strategies trusted by 20,000+ leaders. Monthly coaching. A community of people advancing the Kingdom. Start for $57/month, cancel any time.

Cheering for you,

P.S. You can pre-order AI and the Future Church here.