Writing a Book

First kiss. First car. First child.

The first time you do something is always exciting. Way up there on my own list of personal firsts was publishing my first book. 

It was fun when it officially debuted, and honestly, it’s exciting all over again each time I introduce the book to someone new. When I do, most recipients ask the same question: “How long did it take you to write this?”

The answer is: “Approximately four years, three major rewrites, half a dozen different titles, and lots of tweaks and edits along the way.”

Replace Retirement: Living Your Legacy in the Exponential Age

The book is Replace Retirement: Living Your Legacy in the Exponential Age and when I started it, I had no idea how to write. My first thought was to reach out to a friend for guidance. But I soon discovered he had no more experience than I did. After paying him for six months (with nothing substantial to show), I was referred to an experienced writer named Karl who helped me significantly. In a systematic process, Karl would interview me and take careful notes as I expressed my thoughts and opinions on topics like everyone’s need for a Legacy Map, and my MTP to “Replace Retirement with Intentional Living.”

Finding My Voice and Expertise, and working with Karl on Approachable Prose

After each session, Karl submitted various sections and we would review his writing line by line. As time went on, I began writing chunks on my own. Soon, I became responsible for writing entire sections that I was passionate about. I also began writing on subjects that I had unique insider knowledge about, subjects that Karl could not have known or communicated effectively. Based on my expertise, I wrote the chapters on the Legacy Map and Character Compass. Because I had pioneered these concepts and worked with them for years, I could illustrate my points by sharing actual practices and experiences with clients.   

Another benefit of working with Karl was his informative research that colorized my topics. He made our prose more approachable, with less of a “how-to” feel. 

Soliciting Feedback and Getting to the Point

As we went, I solicited lots of advice from trusted friends and associates. We sent early drafts to both published authors and potential readers for feedback. Many who proofed the early manuscript suggested making it shorter and faster-paced by removing some of the anecdotal stories. Based on this consensus, Karl and I trimmed content (not always an easy task) in order to get to the point quicker.  

In Year Three, I was introduced to a well-known editor. With his fresh perspective (and tons of experience), he suggested we rework the manuscript by moving the Legacy Map from the back of the book (where it had originally been) forward into Chapter 3 where the reader could engage sooner with the principles. 

The finished product took more months and more work than I had envisioned. It forced me to think long and hard about my life, my relationships, my career path, and most importantly, my ultimate mission on this planet. Despite the long journey, it was a great experience and resulted in a good book and valuable read.

Writing Another Book

The second most common question I get is, “Will you write another book?”

It always makes me smile. I reply, “Yes. And you should write one, too!”

Now that I know the ropes, I’m committed to more books. I find writing both challenging and rewarding. In fact, when speaking to an audience, I encourage everyone to write a book — if only for their own extended family. For example, I never knew my grandfather. Fortunately, he’d written a book. Capturing his story allowed him to preserve and pass on his legacy to me and my siblings. Best of all, I actually identify with his estimable values, purpose, and passion.

Did he embellish? Perhaps. Downplay his flaws? Probably. But maybe that’s a good thing. When I think of this fascinating man, I see only the positive side of his character. As a writer, my goal is to put a positive spin on life’s lessons. I don’t sugarcoat, but I want it to be enjoyable for readers to identify with overcoming challenges and taking risks that result in personal growth and acceptance.  

Writing is Crafting a Legacy

In that light, we writers get to craft our own legacy — by design instead of happenstance. Employing this optimistic approach provides an attractive path for others to follow. Since publishing my book, I’ve received numerous affirmations and heartfelt thanks from readers who could relate to my challenges and benefit from my solutions. That is priceless. But even if no one except my own grandkids ever read the book, I’d still consider it a success and a worthy goal.  

In my book, I discuss the benefits of living in today’s Exponential Age. Thanks to digital technology, it’s feasible for just about anyone to self-publish their own book. To get inspired, grab a copy of my Replace Retirement: Living Your Legacy in the Exponential Age at Amazon.com (audio, paperback, or Kindle).

When you do, please join me in writing your own book … and preserving your legacy for generations to come.