The AI Trap Every Tentmaker Needs to Avoid
AI is everywhere right now. Course creation in minutes. Business plans generated instantly. Marketing copy that sounds like you hired a pro.
It seems like the perfect solution for busy pastors and leaders wanting to build their tentmaking income.
But here's what nobody's telling you: AI is both your biggest asset and your most dangerous trap.
Let me explain why - and how to use it without getting burned.
How AI Helps Your Tentmaking Journey
Speed and Efficiency
I help people turn their knowledge into scalable online programs working just 4-5 hours per week. AI has made this so much easier.
What used to take 20 hours of course planning now takes 20 minutes. Need marketing copy? Done. Content outlines? Instant. Research? Lightning fast.
Idea Generation and Research
Stuck on what tentmaking path to pursue? Try this prompt:
"I'm a [your role] with expertise in [your skills/experience]. I have [X hours] per week available and want to build $[income goal] in additional income within [timeframe]. Based on current market trends, suggest 5 tentmaking business models that would fit my situation, including pros/cons and startup requirements for each."
Overcoming Analysis Paralysis
The hardest part of starting any business is often just... starting. AI gives you something to work with - a foundation you can build on rather than staring at endless possibilities.
How AI Hurts Tentmakers (The Hidden Dangers)
The Confidence Trap
Here's the problem: AI has never actually done any of the things it's advising you to do.
Take house flipping. AI will confidently tell you about market analysis, renovation costs, and profit margins. It sounds incredibly knowledgeable.
But AI has never flipped a single house. It's never dealt with contractors who don't show up, surprise structural issues, or market shifts that kill your profit margins.
It's like your waffly uncle that you met at your last family gathering who's got an opinion on everything but when you ask your mum later about him you find out he's never actually done any of the things he claims to know so much about!
You could waste weeks or months following AI's advice and potentially lose thousands because you trusted an algorithm that's never held a hammer or negotiated with a seller.
Endless Rabbit Trails
AI can generate 500 business ideas for you. But you don't need 500 ideas - you need the RIGHT idea for your situation.
I've asked AI a question and got a great sounding answer. Then asked another AI the same question and got a different answer. Then had them arguing with each other about the best way! It's a nightmare!!
I've watched people spend months researching AI-generated opportunities instead of taking action on one solid option.
Stuck in Research Mode
AI makes research so easy that people get addicted to it. They keep asking "just one more question" instead of moving forward with what they already know.
Research feels productive, but it's not. Action is productive.
The Real Problem AI Can't Solve
People aren't failing at tentmaking because they lack information. They're failing because they can't transform information into action.
AI makes this worse by making it easier to consume MORE content when what you actually need is:
- Clear next steps for your specific situation
- Personal accountability from someone who's been there
- Human connection and support
- Guidance when you get stuck (and you will)
The Solution: Human + AI
Use AI as a research assistant and content generator. But get your strategy, accountability, and troubleshooting from humans who've actually walked the path.
Do use AI for:
- Initial business model research
- Content creation and marketing copy
- Market analysis and trend identification
- Administrative tasks and organization
Don't rely on AI for:
- Final business decisions without human input
- Understanding real-world challenges and which is the best path for you to take
- Accountability and motivation
- Problem-solving when things go wrong
Your Next Step
AI is a powerful tool, but it's not a replacement for human expertise and accountability.
Whether you're exploring online courses, real estate, consulting, or any other tentmaking path, remember: AI can help you move faster, but only humans can help you move in the right direction.
The most successful tentmakers I know use AI to accelerate their work, but they get their guidance from people who've actually done what they want to do.
Don't let technology replace the very thing that makes tentmaking successful - learning from those who've walked the path before you.
Standing with you
Simon
P.S. - Speaking of human expertise, I just released a masterclass showing exactly how I help busy professionals build scalable online programs in just 4-5 hours per week. It covers the real-world challenges AI can't prepare you for and the systems that actually work. It's only available for 24 hours - grab it here in my Raw Launch Lab Skool community before it disappears
