Mar 26, 2014 4:33:51 PM
These past few weeks have been full of emotional ups and downs. I recently blogged about our imminent move, and there is a lot more on that front that I could share, but I won’t. I’m ready to just move on (pun intended)! Today what seems significantly more meaningful is a personal victory. I finished my book!
Some of you may recall that I first wanted to write when I was a child. Always an avid reader, I grew up knowing that I would write a book someday. I declared myself an English major in college, but later switched to business. I outlined three books and always planned to begin the writing process, but then year-after-year I never could get myself out of the starting-gate.
Nearly a year ago I began to write in earnest. I found a process that worked for me, and I consistently applied myself to it. I asked for support, and I got it. There were times it felt easier than I imagined. And there were times that I didn’t feel like writing, and it felt hard and forced. Month-after-month, I kept my commitment to myself and that consistency paid off. I learned a lot about myself and what I ultimately believe.
I write because I don’t know what I think until I read what I say – Flannery O’Connor
Earlier this month I completed my first manuscript. The book is called The Cycle of Transformation: Igniting Organizational Change Through the Leader Coach. It is about balancing the drive for results with being a caring and connected leader.
I’m currently working with the marketing consultants and the design team on the interior layout and the cover. I hope to launch the book in Washington D.C. at the A.S.T.D. conference in early May.
I can finally claim it. I am an author! As I say these words to you I feel a bit wobbly, like a new colt trying to get its legs underneath the full weight of a new body. If I say it aloud, “I’m an author,” does it make it so? Where in the Cycle of Transformation can you claim a new facet of yourself? I say…gulp…now.
Clearly, I am still trying to get my head around the idea that I will soon have a published book. As I close the door on the days of writing, rewriting, editing, and reviewing with my book advisory group, I am discovering that there are new doors to open; book launches, cover concepts, endorsements, websites and marketing initiatives. In the days ahead I will keep you up to speed on my progress…a day in the life of…an author! If you are longing to have a different kind of conversation in the workplace, call me at 303-238-9733. Let’s talk about it.
Deb Siverson is a seasoned executive coach, certified as a PCC through the International Coach Federation. If you want to schedule time to discuss how you or your organization can increase engagement through the development of the leader within contact us now.