How NOT to publish a book
My book is finished! I had planned to self-publish Born – Love – Die next week, but a good thing happened to me last week. A friend asked about my plan to publish the book, and when I shared it with him, he nearly slapped me. He pointed out that I’ve been working hard on this book for over two years, I have an important message to share, and that Kim’s story and legacy deserve more effort than simply “pushing the button” on Amazon’s self-publishing platform one evening. My friend was right. Over the next two months, I’ll be promoting the book and leaning on friends (like you) to help get the word out, with a launch date of October 1, 2023. You’ll be hearing more soon about the launch.
And I want to share with you my thoughts about writing. The habit of writing has become my friend and a pillar of stability, confidence, and courage. I encourage you to become a writer if you are not already. I’m so thankful that my life coach, Dr. Tom Hill, back in 2007 inspired me to become a reader and a writer. He encouraged me to start reading good books. He encouraged me to start writing in a journal. I followed his advice and haven’t stopped.
Dr. Hill also encouraged me to write a book as he does all his clients. He says everyone has a book in them, which should be written down. If for no other reason, the story should be written to share with your kids and grandkids. Tom kept nagging me about this, and I eventually gave in. I first wrote From Autopilot to Authentic and then co-authored with Tom Living at the Summit. Writing a book is hard, but it is so worth the effort. It is like running a marathon or getting an advanced degree. Each requires a ton of training, effort, dedication, and commitment to finish. This leads to personal growth, a key element of fulfillment and well-being.
As I was writing Born – Love – Die, I leaned heavily on the entries I made in my journal during the year of ALS. I’m so thankful I kept that journal as it revealed the truth of some sad and raw moments that my human memory had forgotten or tucked away.
I’ll recap my advice for you and your loved ones:
Become a reader of good books. Put down the device. Turn off the TV. As you read books, you’ll become more intelligent, interesting, curious, and addicted to growth.
Start writing in a journal every day. This will help you reflect on your one and only life and perhaps make changes to live your best life.
Write a book. Write down the story of your life. Leave it for your kids and their kids.
I’m curious about your thoughts and experience with “reading and writing.” Also, please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help you and be on the lookout for news about how you can help me with the launch of Born – Love – Die.
Cheers!