As many of you know, my first book, “Is This Seat Taken?” was released this week on 11/1/11. This story book is a collection of highly personal vignettes from my life as a global traveler over the years. My intention in remembering and sharing these stories is simply to highlight the wisdom of the many virtually invisible people who cross our paths each and every day. The only prerequisite to benefit from these individuals is for us to be awake in the present moment to hear and see what is right in front of us. These insights helped me on my own individual road to alignment.
In the spirit of full transparency, it is with a healthy combination of passion, excitement and fear that I welcome 11/1/11. It has been a year+ of hard work, tumultuous learning curves, and – quite frankly – frustration. Writing a book is not for the faint of heart. Simply stated: the publishing industry is changing rapidly yet remains broken.
So what have I learned in this process? Well, I could cathartically write a book on how to write a book from my perspective, as there is so much one does not know until you are knee deep in it and by that time the only option is to keep plugging forward! Yet, what I would like to share in this particular blog is a single keen awareness about myself, which may prove insightful, stimulating or maybe even encouraging to those of you facing similarly challenging entrepreneurial roles, corporate leadership positions, or simply living life in general.
Passion trumps fear.
The fact is that I have always wanted to write, ever since I was a little girl. Thus, I did – starting when I was a child. A book was the dream. I believe in order for dreams to come true we have to put in place a plan fueled by discipline and move stubbornly forward in faith. In my case, the fear of rejection, failure and all the other types of risk associated with this dream fell second to the passion. Sure, I am still greeting 11/1/11 with some trepidation, yet the fact is that I have jumped out of the plane, hoping the parachute opens! Regardless, the experience has been tremendous and I have learned a lot which I will undoubtedly use with my Alignment, Inc. clients and in the writing of my second book.
Net: passion was the key for me. Without that, this book would never have seen the light of day.
Is This Seat Taken? Dallas Book Launch from Kristin Kaufman on Vimeo.
Kristin, I am so sad I was not able to be in Dallas to be there for your launch. I’m on the road travellling but am happy to let you know that Amazon has notified me that my pre-order for your book has shipped. I can’t wait to read it and look forward to your deep insights.
Drop me a line soon…
Kristin, we’ve met only once – at a Starbucks when we were introduced by Susan Shapiro. I was impressed then with your warmth and varied experiences and have continued to enjoy your authentic voice and the insights you share in the blog.
I look foward to reading your first book (BRAVO!)and expect to see the same wisdom, humor, and heart. Keep writing, Kristin, and I’ll keep reading.
Carole
Kristin, It is exactly your passion and determination that has kept our team aligned, motivated and moving forward to tell the world about “Is This Seat Taken?”. You truly walk the walk that you counsel others about — your personal example is your most compelling argument for alignment!
BTW — the book is a great read!
Love love love the book. You are a great writer with wonderful stories of courage and grace! Thank you for persisting!
Kristin – I am so excited for you! I’m still in Colorado and was unable to be at the book signing but watched the video and know how overwhelmed you must have been by the wonderful response!! I ordered my advance copy the day I heard about your book and know when I get home, it will be there waiting for me. Can’t wait! Be Blessed Beyond Measure, my friend!
I thought about you while flying to and from St.Louis last week – and as a result had wonderful conversations with those next to me. Thank you for opening up those possibilities! Look forward to reading the book and sharing it with others.