Open letter to my 2015 aspiring author self - reflections of a published author

Today is the day. I finally launch my book, The MECE Muse.  A book that I thought into existence over 16 years ago under a conference room table picking up papers (long story – read more of the story in the MECE Muse preface!). A book that organically came to be after spending the last 8 years being the mentor that I wish I had earlier in my career.

In celebration of this incredible life milestone, I decided to write a letter to my aspiring author self and share some reflections (while they are still fresh) of the writing and publishing process for those that may be in the valleys of their first book journey as well.  Please enjoy.

 Dear 2015 Christie,

I wanted to go back in time and write a letter to share some of the highlights of the journey that you are about to embark on with this book idea.  While I know that you are in the midst of wedding planning right now, there is a whisper you have been hearing. It’s time to write that book. I know you have been wrestling with the idea for years. Well, it is time to answer that call. And I want to be the first to tell you… you can do it. And guess what? You do not need another college degree, a specific title or promotion, or one more project under your belt before you can be considered a credible consultant and expert. You have got the goods, so stop second guessing yourself.  You got this! 

Before you get started, here are some other thoughts to keep in mind: 

• Writing something every day will be one of the best decisions you make that actually brings this book to life. That decision will pay off dividends in the future of your book due to the habits you end up creating. You will not only become a better writer & build more confidence, you will end up creating a blog to which 1000s of people will read, and it will inspire you to create a podcast show. One suggestion as you go down this journey is to consider creating an outline earlier on of the content in the book and while writing every day, have a compass as to what you need to write.
• You are going to struggle with who the book is for because you are trying to help so many people. I get it. As you begin writing, consider creating an avatar of who you want the reader of this book to be. Run your avatar suggestion to some of your close colleagues.
• Every time you write a page, I recommend reading it out loud before moving on. You will save yourself a lot of time during the editing process.
• Start the outreach process for gathering interviews from consulting partners earlier in the journey of the book. While that was another great decision, do not be so nervous about reaching out to others for help with the book. You will be thrilled to know that people – sometimes perfect strangers – are going to be so excited to hear about your project. Your passion will influence a lot of people to go out of their way to help you. They will root you on, introduce to others that can help, and give you great resources. 
• Some nights and weekends are going to be tougher than others. Embrace the suck. I’m not going to sugar coat it, some days writing a book just suck. Remember why you are writing the book and as needed, take breaks. You will find that taking a couple of nights off to give you time to think through your next steps will actually help you write better and think with more clarity. On the other hand, you will have moments of writing brilliance when your thoughts come together so well. Embrace those moments as well.
• After you finish writing the book, you are going to spend almost an entire year going through the publishing process. Surprise! Take the time to do research and plan it out, but let the process unveil itself. Do not be in a rush because this is the crucial stage where you take a somewhat ok manuscript and polish into what will become a masterpiece.
• Do not obsess over the aesthetics of the book or stress about it. Your publishing team is going to do a great job and the book is going to be absolutely stunning to look at and feel to the touch. Your book is going to be exactly as you had envisioned it. And you are going to be so proud of the day that you get to hold the final product in your hand. 
• Do not stress over the fact that it is taking a long time to write and publish the book based on your original expected timeline. You are going to meet John Kotter (yes, that John Kotter!) and he is going to share insights as to why your book was actually right on time.
• You are going to inspire a lot of people just through your own journey. Be proud that because of people watching your own walk, you will create a community of authors around you. Get ready because you will be attending a lot of book launches in the future!

Lastly, I am proud of the person you have become through this journey; your family, friends, and colleagues are too. Mom, dad, grandma, and all of your ancestors are beaming in heaven right now. I look forward to seeing you on the other side. In the meantime, I will be right here rooting for you.

 To greatness,

Christie Lindor 

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This letter originally appeared on my blog.

Christie Lindor is a seasoned consultant, podcast host, speaker, blogger, and author of, 'The MECE Muse: 100+ selected practices, unwritten rules, and habits of great consultants.

The MECE Muse is now available on Amazon.

Download a free copy of The MECE Muse Manifesto of Great Consultants.

The views reflected in this post are the views of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the global EY organization or its member firms.