We all want to be ready. When the bell rings, when the driver pulls over, when a project is due. We want to be ready to go.
I’ve done a lot of preparing for the next big project in my life. I’m referring to the launch of my memoir: Anxious Mom, Anxious Child, A Mother’s Journey from Anxiety to Serenity. From the early stages of defining the themes of my book to developing a story that was true to the essence of my message, working with a designer on the book cover and editing the manuscript. Then came the hardest part, sharing the draft with family and friends, and being willing to accept comments, and suggestions.
It takes an open mind and a willingness to learn something new. The process of writing a book is similar to the planning for a big celebration, like a wedding or a movie premiere. Some people compare it to giving birth, but I’m not sure that anything could compare to the miracle of bringing a child into this world.
What I’d say is this, if you are writing a book as personal as this book was for me, you have to dig deep. You have to go places that maybe you didn’t want to go to uncover the truth.
For a minute or two you will face your fears. You’ll become an expert at it. If you are lucky you’ll find the strength to go there, to dive in. You’ll swim among the sharks that sorround you. The fear that haunts you and want to see you tremble. Then you’ll emerge strong, beautiful, and untouchable because you’ll know that you’ve surpassed the test.
My book sample is here and it looks perfect. It launches officially in a few days. I’ve made one of my dreams come true. After becoming an indie author, and adding this to the list of accomplishments in my career, whatever challenge comes next I’ll be able to say: “I’ve got this, I’m ready.”