An “unforced error” is a term borrowed from sports, especially tennis, meaning a mistake made due to one’s own lapse rather than being forced by an opponent. In everyday language, it refers to an avoidable mistake or misstep, typically resulting from a lack of attention or care rather than external pressure. Thom examines one of the most common unforced errors in this podcast: failure to have a secret guest.
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- A secret guest is someone who visits the church anonymously and provides honest, outsider feedback.
- Churches often become blind to their own flaws, and fresh eyes reveal issues that regular attendees no longer notice.
- Insights from a secret guest can address areas like signage, greeting, cleanliness, and service clarity.
- One or two visits per year can provide a powerful pulse check on the guest experience.
- Simple observations from a first-time perspective often lead to some of the most impactful improvements.
Resources:
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- Introducing Upward Running! Upward Sports’ first step into adult sports is here — and running has never been easier to get “up and running.”
- Offer a 5K Challenge: Inspire your congregation and engage your community with a meaningful running ministry. Upward provides:
- Tailored training plans to help your runner or walkers move from the couch to completing a 5k.
- Access to the new RunClub app for tracking progress and building community.
- A fully customizable program that fits your church’s timeline — all led by your run coach who will be fully equipped with the Upward Running materials to lead.
- Simple to Start: With just one passionate leader and no facility needed, your church parking lot can become the starting line for life transformation.
- Build Stronger Connections: Use running to foster relationships, promote healthy habits, and grow spiritually while expanding your church’s impact.
- Upward is Here for You: Ready to bring Upward Running to your church? Visit Upward.org/Runcoach to get started today!
