The Ride of a Lifetime
Right up front, I need to disclose that this isn’t my normal type of post. It’s much more like a parent announcing the birth of a child.
Today I’m officially announcing that I have a book coming out in February. It’s called The Book of Mistakes: 9 Secrets to Creating a Successful Future.
For those of you who have thought about writing a book, but haven’t taken the plunge, let me share with you some of the emotions involved. I’m excited, sure, but that excitement is also mixed with nervousness, anxiety, stress, and, if I’m really honest, a healthy dose of undiluted, raw fear.
It’s like the first time I was on a terrifying rollercoaster in an amusement park. The ride up is like the writing and editing process, a slow ascent without fully realizing what’s about to happen. But then things change. Before your book is released, things shift, just like that feeling on the rollercoaster when you’ve crept up and up, the gears grinding, the wheels churning. You’re perched on the precipice, knowing what’s coming, knowing the drop is imminent, your stomach tightening involuntarily, your teeth gritting together.
I suppose that I should be somewhat okay with all of it. After all, each time I write an article whether here or on other sites, I’m exposing a part of me.
But a book is more permanent. It’s like putting a part of myself out into the world, wholly vulnerable and unable to get it back.
Let’s face it: I watched my wife deliver our child and did all I could to support her, but I wasn’t the one in agony.
Now I am.
It’s both an exhilarating experience and a horrifying experience. It’s like nothing I imagined.
From what I now know, and whether this book takes off or sells only two copies, I have a newfound appreciation for authors and for those who put their creative talents on display over and over again. It’s not easy.
And so, if you find yourself friends with an author, I suggest you buy that person’s book. If your friendship isn’t worth the price of the book, then back out of the friendship. If it is, read the book. You’ll get a glimpse into the mind and heart of the author. After all, a good friend is one that grabs your hand for the ride, screaming with you on the way down, not at you from below.
I hope that you join me on the ride.
*If you do order, keep your receipt. You’ll see why in another note soon.
Order your copy today!
Order your copy today!
