Blue Jeans and Kryptonite

I’ve found myself in a rut. As a full-time writer, I’ve always valued being able to work from home. I mean, who wouldn’t want to got to work in their pajamas? The problem is that while I’m in my pajamas, so is my brain. I’ve noticed that domestic distractions are taking over my work hours and I need to get a handle on it before it goes any further.

In lieu of building a home office, I’ve opted for the local coffee shop as my new creative wonder world. After the first day at my new “office,” it was clear that I’d made the right choice. Working in a public place has silenced the pull of Facebook, TMZ, People, and Google. Although I still get the itch to check on my virtual farm, island, and café, pure embarrassment provides a nice out.

There is a lot to be said for the psychological effects of getting dressed in non-pajama clothes. I find myself feeling stronger, more confident, and even bursting with creativity. Who knew that a pair of pajamas would be my kryptonite and detrimental to my career?

Hey writers, what is your kryptonite?

~tbk

The Loose Ends

Today is a red-letter day for this author!!  Two things I’ve been working on in the past weeks are finally complete! Mike and I now have an outline for the book proposal, along with a REALISTIC working timeline. These are important steps we’ve taken. I’ve said before, there is so much that goes into a book’s creation. I wasn’t joking.

I will be honest and say the research it takes to create a business plan for a book, a plan that makes up a huge portion of the book proposal, separates the men from the boys (or the women from the girls). After our book proposal outline was complete, Mike and I went through it and delegated tasks based on our skills set. As two people who’ve worked in business for most of our careers, we bring a mix of experience to the table. While Mike is the go-to guy for the original idea behind the Anything But Ordinary concept, the one with marketing and promotional experience, I bring PR  and mediation experience, as well as specializing in building and nurturing business relationships. All of this comes into play in the planning of a book. I’m thankful for our individual professional histories, as we’ll have a very thorough marketing plan as a result.

Another feather in our cap is that the timeline is complete. This was important to our project as it moves forward. I’ve projected that it will take us the next eleven weeks until we’re ready to query our list of dream agents. With the query letters sent, I’ll work on finishing the manuscript, along with doing promotional work. There are a lot of great things on the table for the Anything But Ordinary team! We’re excited to bring our message to an eager audience.

On a personal note, Mike and I would like to thank everyone who is following the creation of Anything But Ordinary: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives. We’re blessed by your positive feedback, as well as your constructive criticism. We look forward to the day we can put a copy of our book in your hands!

 ~tbk

Michael McCleary on Mentorship: Part II

Today’s post is the second installment of his interview with The Invisible Mentor’s Avil Beckford. Enjoy!

~tbk

We present part two of Michael McLeary’s interview today, and part two is as informative as part one. These interviewees are truly invisible mentors in every sense of the meaning. They are unique leaders who we can learn things from. What would happen if we combined the wisdom, wisdom and experiences of all the invisible mentors? What are your thoughts? Let’s read Michael’s interview and learn as much from him as we can.

Tell me a little bit about yourself.

I tell extraordinary stories for a living.  It’s the best career I’ve ever had.  What do I mean by telling stories? Well I own a video production/new media/web company about 2 hours north of Detroit, MI. Recently, I also had the opportunity to finish my first feature length documentary, An Anything But Ordinary Journey, with my business partner Casey Turner in October of 2009. I spent over 4 years on the project, interviewing people across the US and Canada on the meaning of success.  So whether it’s making films, or serving clients through our business, it’s all about sharing extraordinary stories with the world and that is extremely satisfying.

As an Invisible Mentor, what is one piece of advice that you would give to readers?

Find your passion and purpose.  I believe we were all empowered with a gift to give to the world.  I’d like to emphasize the words gift and give.  When we give of ourselves and our talents freely to others, amazing things occur.  This doesn’t mean what you always do is free, but find ways to give back.  It not only makes you feel good but also those you affect.  When you wrap the concept of giving around what it is you have a passion for, you find moments of joy that are truly amazing and almost unexplainable.  If you don’t feel you have found a purpose or passion, begin that search now!

How do you integrate your personal and professional life?

Sometimes it’s hard but really my professional life is almost an extension of my personal and vice-versa.  I love making connections and friends.  If you are a client, I really do consider you a friend.  It’s not what I can get from you but what can I give to you.

What’s a major regret that you’ve had in life?

Not always finishing what I’ve started.  I love starting things, finishing a few times hasn’t always been the easiest.  One of my resolutions this year is to go through and tie up any loose strings I have in my life.

What are five life lessons that you have learned so far?

Find your Passion, you have a gift so find joy in using it, 2. Truly experience gratitude and be thankful for what you have been blessed with in your life, 3. Persevere even when it looks like there is no light at the end of the tunnel, 4. Be willing to make a Change, even when it may be difficult, 5. Find your Faith, whether it be in God, friends or family; faith is the power that will keep you going.

When you have some down time, how do you spend it?

Down time, what’s down time?  Actually, I’m a notorious web surfer.  I love reading news.  I’m also a Facebook addict.  Yes I admit it, I enjoy social media!  I also just really enjoy spending time with friends and family and long drives in the summer.

What process do you use to generate great ideas?

I generally don’t have a process, in fact when I force it, it’s harder for me.  I’ve been blessed that ideas often just pop into my head out of thin air so I take the time to write them down before I forget.  If I really need to find an idea or solution, I’ll actually go out and do something fun and non work related and those are the times I have the best insights.

What’s your favourite quotation and why?

Only 1?  I guess I’m going to break the rules and give you 2…
“Don’t ask what the world needs, ask what makes you come alive and go do that. Because what the world needs is more people that have come alive.”
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed people can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.” –  Margaret Mead

How do you define success?

Find your purpose and passion.  When you do that and find joy in your life, no matter what society may deem success for you, your life, that is success because you are doing what you are supposed to do.

In your opinion what’s the formula for success?

It’s different for every one.  Watch my film, An Anything But Ordinary Journey http:/www.anythingbutordinary.net.  Yes, this is a bit of shameful self promotion, but the film follows my journey to find out what it really means to be successful and has so many nuggets of wisdom from a wide range of people.  It answers this question.

What are the steps you took to succeed in your field?

The big thing was really to make a decision that I was going to commit to my career choice and continue to pursue it even when times were tough.  By taking committed steps of action towards a goal, the path becomes clear, even when at first it doesn’t appear to be.

What advice do you have for someone just starting out in your field?

I recommend getting some work as a production assistant on various productions.  Work for free and find out if you really like it.  If you have an opportunity, I strongly recommend finding a quality film school.  There is so much to learn.  I’m blessed with a natural aptitude for this, but I really want to eventually go to school myself.

If trusted friends could introduce you to five people that you’ve always wanted to meet, who would you choose? And what would you say to them?

’d ask mostly a lot of questions…  My life has been one giant interview with people about success and life.  This would be no different.

1. Mitch Albom – “For someone who has the success and fame you have achieved as a writer, author and personality, how do you manage to live such a fairly normal life and stay humble?”  2. Pope John Paul II – “What was your secret to moving almost a billion people in a positive direction, and do so with such humility and warmth?”  3. –  Elon Musk – “As the creator of PayPal, now SpaceX and Tesla Motors; how did you not only come up with these ideas, but follow through and actually create successful, growing organizations?”  4. Abraham Lincoln – “In the darkest days of the US Civil War where did you find your strength to continue moving forward?  What was the secret of your personal success in one of the darkest times of US history??”  5. Sarah Palin – “Hire me, I’d be the best strategist you’ll ever find.”

Which one book had a profound impact on your life? What was it about this book that impacted you so deeply? Did you have an emotional or intellectual attachment to this book? Why?

Now Boarding Next Stop Your Remarkable Life by Kandee G. I don’t just say this because my friend and mentor wrote the book but because it was one of the first self-help books that I’ve ever read that not only put large concepts in simple language but also did it in a clear and easily readable format.

If you were stranded on a deserted island, what are five books that you would like to have with you and why? Summarize the book in two sentences.

This is hard because I only really like reading books once.  I’d have to say The  Bible, because I’ve never read it all the way through, second it’s has a diverse set of stories, concepts and ideas, third, it’s huge.  I could meditate on many of the ideas therein for a long time.  Otherwise, there is nothing that has caught my attention that I haven’t read that I want to.  One other way to solve this would be to ask my friend Steve for recommendations on 4 other books, he’s a voracious reader and could pick some great ones for me.

Have you read any books that inspired you to start a business, service or invent “something”? If yes, which book?

Tony Robbins Unlimited Power really encouraged me to find my purpose and go after it.  I’m definitely a Robbins fan.

What one music CD and movie would you like to have with you (on the deserted island) and why?

My tastes constantly change, but right now for an album, independent rock group AG Silver and their album Wake Up and Smell Reality.  Movie?  I have so many favorites.  Probably Star Wars, but that could change tomorrow.

What excites you about life?

I have an opportunity everyday to do something I love and to help change people’s lives and organizations for the better.  Everyday brings something new.  It brings new opportunities, friends and experiences.  I can’t wait to see what will happen each day.

How do you nurture your soul?

Simply taking time out and being with myself or sharing thoughts and ideas with friends.  Simple conversation is very relaxing for my soul.

If you had a personal genie and she gave you one wish, what would you wish for? Or, if I gave you a magic wand, what would you use it for?

That everyone would find a POSITIVE purpose and passion in their life.  If everyone could do that, there would be little need for arguments, wars and disagreements.

Complete the following, I am happy when.….

I hear that I did something to encourage someone else to pursue their passion.

How can you apply Michael’s interview? Which aspects resonated with you?

Michael McCleary On Mentorship

Today’s post comes directly from Avil Beckford’s blog, The Invisible Mentor, and features an in-depth interview with Michael McCleary on the subject of mentorship. Between the two of us, Mike and I have acquired an amazing set of  mentors who’ve devoted themselves selflessly through the years. If you’re interested in reading more interviews by Avil, a link to The Invisible Mentor is  posted on our Blogroll. Enjoy!

~tbk

I conduct these interviews as much for myself as I do for you. I learn so much from these highly accomplished individuals. I was moved by portions of Michael’s interview and I am sure you will too. The interviewees are usually asked the same questions.  I liked his response to how mentors influenced his life “What most people don’t realize is that they have mentors around them all the time and they probably don’t realize it.  Our friends, family, employers, co-workers, writers, God.  They are all there influencing us every day, in ways we often don’t understand or grasp.”

What are your thoughts?

 Tell me a little bit about yourself.

I tell extraordinary stories for a living.  It’s the best career I’ve ever had.  What do I mean by telling stories? Well I own a video production/new media/web company about 2 hours north of Detroit, MI. Recently, I also had the opportunity to finish my first feature length documentary, An Anything But Ordinary Journey, with my business partner Casey Turner in October of 2009. I spent over 4 years on the project, interviewing people across the US and Canada on the meaning of success.  So whether it’s making films, or serving clients through our business, it’s all about sharing extraordinary stories with the world and that is extremely satisfying.

What’s a typical day like for you?

That’s a good question. It really varies and that’s what I love about what I do. Some days I’m on the road filming a project or meeting with current or future clients. Other days it is making sure everything is being taken care of in the office or spending time brainstorming and editing projects with Casey. I’m also primarily responsible for graphic design and web design in our company so that may also keep me in the office. Everything we do however is custom designed for our clients, and we ensure that their brand shows through, the benefit for me is I get out of the office a lot to film, photograph, etc. I also do my best to take time to workout regularly and of course there is always family time.

How do you motivate yourself and stay motivated?

I find projects I love to do. I’m fascinated by different people, thoughts, locations and industries, so this career is perfect for me. Things are always different and on the move and that is something that keeps me motivated. The recent completion of this film has also provided an additional level of motivation. I’ve seen and talked with people who have had a life changing experience after watching our film. They are now taking a more proactive role in shaping the life they want.  How can you not be motivated to know that what you are doing is making people’s lives better?

If you had to start over from scratch, knowing what you know now, what would you do differently?

There are some things I would do differently, but on the other hand, my life experiences have made me who I am today.  That may sound like a cop-out, but it’s true.  If I had to pick a few “somethings” that I would give advice for others to do or do differently, I’d recommend taking school more seriously.  I did fine in university, but was by no means the top of my class.  I was always active in various clubs and organizations.  I sometimes let schoolwork slip and I realize how important that is now, simply learning the discipline to create good work habits early.

What’s the most important business (or other) discovery you’ve made in the past year?

I’m good enough and have something unique to share with the world.  I’ve always looked at other companies and been somewhat envious.  I’ve also looked at other individuals the same way.  I’d look at myself and have a bit of a complex on whether I looked good enough, or was smart enough, or wise enough.  I realize now I have a fascinating story, and a unique set of skills that many people would kill for.  I know I can hang with the big boys now, and that was the biggest thing I had to realize.

What’s one of the biggest advances in your industry over the past five years?

Digital technology for not only recording video/film, but also editing and storage.  Technology has come so far that it has evened the playing field much more in regards to the quality of an image you can capture compared to those with much more expensive equipment.  It has put pressure on the income you can generate from clients because anyone with decent equipment is out there promising the world.  Can they necessarily deliver it, no.  This also places an additional burden of proof on producers that we can offer something unique for our clients, and a much more experienced understanding of their needs.

What are the three threats to your business, your success, and how are you handling them?

As I noted before, 1. The introduction of quality cameras at near consumer prices.  2. Powerful video editing software is now available for virtually any computer that can allow any consumer to create powerful videos.  3. The downturn in the US and particularly the Michigan economy has also made finding new projects more difficult.  What we have found with problems 1 and 2 is to demonstrate the quality we bring to a project and also to demonstrate to potential clients that making their own video that will get consumers to buy their product is not all that easy.  We’ve attacked our third problem by diversifying and doing more projects outside of Michigan in Canada, Florida and others.

What’s unique about the service that you provide?

We take the time to understand our client, their needs, mission and their branding. By doing that, all of our web, graphic design and video work looks professional and like them.  It exudes their organization.  We don’t just make a video for a video’s sake, but to share their extraordinary story.  All companies have a story, and that’s what clients want to know.

In regards to our recent foray into filmmaking and mine into speaking, we have a unique vision of success.  Instead of interviewing people that most everyone knows, I chose unknown people, like your neighbors, who also have fascinating, compelling, extraordinary stories and outlooks on life to share.  Through the creation of our company and this film, I’ve come to realize success is much more than the tangible value we often assign to it.

What do you observe most people in your field doing badly that you think you do well?

Getting a message across and making it stick.  In our industry I often find people will spend a lot of money for a video that doesn’t tell the viewer anything related to the message they were trying to send, or doesn’t encourage consumers why they should purchase the product or service.  It’s one thing to make a flashy, pretty, even artistic video, it’s another to create something that is effective and encourages a buying decision.

Describe a major business (or other) challenge you had and how you resolved it.

When I got into this industry I didn’t have the experience or funding to do things the right way on my own.  So I found others who had that experience and were open to finding unique ways to partner.  I’ve found that if you really want to do something but don’t have a lot of your needs (whether that is money, experience, etc.), I encourage others to do it anyway.  Take meaningful steps towards what it is you want to accomplish and resources will show up in strange ways.  But you have to take daily steps of faith and persevere even when times look impossible.

What lessons did you learn in the process?

I’ve learned success is much more than your bank account or big things.  Success is the little things we get right every day.  It’s about following through and finishing what you start.  It’s about relationships and time with loved ones.  It’s about finding that happy place inside each one of us, a place where you know that if you checked out of this life tomorrow, you are proud of what you have accomplished so far.

Tell me about your big break and who gave you.

I’ve had a lot of big breaks.  There are three that stick out to me.  My first was in 9th grade my coach selecting me for the 9th grade basketball team.  I was probably the least talented or skilled of anyone who tried out, but I worked harder than all of them.  I’d never made a team before, I’d always been cut, but I had persevered, every summer shooting baskets all summer long and going to camps.  When I finally made that team, it showed me that hard work really was rewarded.  I’ve never forgotten that.

The second had to be meeting my mentor Kandee G during the interview process for my film.  She gave me my first opportunity to work in the speaking business and an inside understanding of the industry I never could have without her help.

The Third was our first video client, Cooperative Elevator Company.  They took a chance on a new company and a pair of kids in their 20’s to create a high quality video with a decent budget who had little in regards to a portfolio.  I’ll always be thankful to them for believing in us.

Describe one of your biggest failures. What lessons did you learn, and how did it contribute to a greater success?

I pissed off and lost a pretty important client.  I over committed and took on a part of the project I even knew at the time I shouldn’t.  But I always love to tell a client we can do anything, and we virtually always deliver.  This time wasn’t the case, and I blew future jobs from the company.  I learned never to over-promise, and more importantly, keep to areas of the project you know best.  There is nothing wrong with stretching and doing something you don’t always do, but of all things, don’t over-promise in an area that is not your strong suit.

What has been your biggest disappointment in your life – and what are you doing to prevent its reoccurrence?

I really try not to get overly disappointed and just live life’s dance.  There certainly times I do get disappointed and when I do, I like to take time to analyze where I made a mistake and how not to do it again.  Then I let it go, life’s not worth getting an ulcer over, we have too many blessings in our lives.  Even if it’s just to be thankful for breathing, that means we are alive and have an opportunity to make future days better.

What’s one of the toughest decisions you’ve had to make and how did it impact your life?

The decision to quit the corporate merry-go-round.  I was very unhappy with my life because I felt my life had little meaning and purpose.  I knew I wasn’t doing what I was supposed to be doing.  On the other hand it was quite scary to give up that guaranteed paycheck every two weeks.  Leaving and starting my own business has been one of the best decisions of my life after I got over my fear.

What are three events that helped to shape your life?

1.Getting married and having three kids.  Nothing really prepares you for that.  I’ve been blessed, even when times aren’t always perfect.  2. Starting my company, Beacon Media.  I’ve learned so much from being my own boss and found some of the things I’ve been searching for in life.  3. Taking the time to make this documentary film and sticking with it.  4 years is a long time on one project, but I made a commitment to not start another pet project until this one was done.  That sense of discipline had a profound impact on my life along with everything I learned from the process of interviewing 20 extraordinary individuals. I liked this response about mentors “What most people don’t realize is that they have mentors around them all the time and they probably don’t realize it.  Our friends, family, employers, co-workers, writers, God.  They are all there influencing us every day, in ways we often don’t understand or grasp.

What’s an accomplishment that you are proudest of?

I could say my children, but I think in the end, right now, I’m proudest of this film.  It really is an expression and culmination of everything I’ve learned so far in my life (including lessons learned from my children).  It has had a positive effect on virtually everyone who has seen it.  Can I ask for anything more?

How did mentors influence your life?

Immensely.  I’ve learned mentors are one of, if not the most important factor for finding a measure of success in life.  What most people don’t realize is that they have mentors around them all the time and they probably don’t realize it.  Our friends, family, employers, co-workers, writers, God.  They are all there influencing us every day, in ways we often don’t understand or grasp.

What’s one core message you received from your mentors?

Every day is a valuable gift from God.  If you aren’t doing what brings you joy in your life right now, you better start looking for it.

We are not promised a tomorrow, only a “right now”.  So pursue your dreams and passions now before you don’t wake up one day and it’s too late.

Which resources (books, movies, training etc.) did your mentors recommend to you?

Some good books I can think of off the bat (in no particular order), How to Win Friends and Influence People, Think and Grow Rich, The Bible, Now Boarding: Next Stop Your Remarkable Life and so many more…

As an Invisible Mentor, what is one piece of advice that you would give to readers?

Find your passion and purpose.  I believe we were all empowered with a gift to give to the world.  I’d like to emphasize the words gift and give.  When we give of ourselves and our talents freely to others, amazing things occur.  This doesn’t mean what you always do is free, but find ways to give back.  It not only makes you feel good but also those you affect.  When you wrap the concept of giving around what it is you have a passion for, you find moments of joy that are truly amazing and almost unexplainable.  If you don’t feel you have found a purpose or passion, begin that search now!

How can you apply Michael’s interview? Which aspects resonated with you?

Pondering and Defining Co-Authorship

 

As I get further into creating a timeline for the book and continuing to work on building an amazing proposal and query, I ponder the concept of co-authoring. As someone who has flown solo on my previous projects, I find myself in a much different arena. Partnership affects many things, and it takes two people who are completely secure with what they bring to the table to make it work. I feel very blessed that Mike and I are able to maintain both a personal and professional relationship. It also helps that we can finish each other’s thoughts and anticipate what the other is about to say.  

I’m not sure how other co-authoring teams work, but for us, we’re all about respect and encouragement. I respect the ground work Mike laid, the interviews he’s done, publicity he’s received, etc. Oh, did I mention his networking prowess? Yeah, that is great too! On the flip side, Mike, I know, is appreciative of my writing voice and style, the respect I have for readers (avoiding over-inflated  language, yet not dumbing things down), and a deep-rooted passion for helping people and uplifting them to seek passion and purpose.

 According to most definitions, co-author teams consist of at least one expert in the subject being written about. I find this a point to ponder. So what makes someone an expert? I suppose that’s subjective. Our book is about ordinary people, people like you and me, who took the time to consider the direction of their lives. What sets them apart from other ordinary people is that they made CONSCIOUS decisions quit living in a passive way. For these people, life wasn’t going to simply happen to them, they decided to LIVE WITH PURPOSE. That, in itself, is extraordinary. It takes enormous gumption to live deliberately. So again, who is the expert on our team? The answer: Tina and Mike.

 Mike and I both have testimonies about how we, ordinary people, decided to step outside the box and pursue passion and purposeful lives. Coincidentally, Mike and I were both working in banking and finance when we each found ourselves feeling unfulfilled. It was an all-consuming feeling that even crossed over in to our personal lives. As spouses and parents, being stuck in an unending rut was not an option. So we dug deep to find the thing we were most passionate about. For Mike, the answer lay in video production and various media interests. For me, it was all about the art of words, specifically, being a writer.

 We are credible experts because we both took huge risks by following our passions. We never saw failure as an option, which lit a fire to accept nothing less than success. As a result, Mike is a movie producer and I am a published author. The best part is that our journey is only beginning. Our current roles are not the cap on our dreams. Doing what we do is fulfilling and exciting. Ultimately, that was our goal.

Willing to Share?

For those of you who’ve watched the An Anything But Ordinary Journey’s  film trailer, you have to admit, the song choice was incredible. As someone who appreciates all forms of art, including music and songwriting, I am very excited about the group AG Silver! I’m listening to their music for inspiration while writing today. Check them out at http://www.myspace.com/agsilver. I hope to pull myself away from the book long enough to catch a show.

For all the veteran authors who are following this blog, here is a question: Do you have any tips about creating a REALISTIC timeline for completing a book? I have a vague idea where I’m heading, but would appreciate any and all feedback from those who’ve been there! I know that each project has its own special issues and needs, but I’m looking for some general comments.

Thanks!!

~tbk

My Lines, My Lines!

This weekend I’ll be creating a timeline for the writing of Anything But Ordinary: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives. My research phase is coming to a close and that means its time to get dirty. I’ve been told that having a workable and realistic timeline for a project like ours is essential to the organization and creative process, otherwise it will be in a constant state of limbo. Normally I wouldn’t be so emphatic about a schedule, but I’m working on a team. As a co-author, I must put aside my usual creative madness.

Assuming most writers/creative people are, I’m a fly by the seat of my pants kind of  person. Oh, you know people like me? They frustrate and annoy you, you say? Well talk to my mother because you have NO idea! I have to give her kudos for attempting to keep up with my 500 thoughts per second insanity. I try to keep it harnessed, but…wait, what was I saying? See, frustrating!

In all seriousness, there is a reason that Mike and I want to get the book into the hands of our readers as soon as possible. Our message is relevant. Also, the film, which has garnered some pretty incredible buzz, has created fans who are anxiously anticipating the book. As a matter of fact, Mike discussed the book on World Talk Radio’s program, Breaking the Limits!: Your Past Does Not Dictate Your Future with host Lyca Shan back in December. Check out his interview at http://www.voiceamerica.com/worldtalkradio/vepisode.aspx?aid=43090.

As the Anything But Ordinary team receives  requests for screenings, speaking engagements, etc., it is important that the book be one of the things we discuss, which means we have to have a book! And if we don’t have the book right at that moment, we need give our readers an update on our book’s development. Having a timeline will satisfy this need, and also keep me and Mike on task. By the way, Mike is reading this post and nodding his head thinking, “Yes, would you please get me that schedule!” That’s one of the perks of working with someone I know so well. I literally hear his voice in my head!

~tbk

Blazing a Trail, Yee Haw!

Although I involved myself in some non-book work today, it hasn’t been far from my mind. In fact, I’ve put together a nice outline for the book proposal, if I do say so myself. Ha! It is turning into a wonderful experience. I love that with every word written, note taken, interview transcribed, chapters are springing to life. Authoring a book length work has turned into creating a series of essays that weave together and connect information to make up one larger body of work. As a short story and essay writer, as well as a former journalist, my training is such that I say a lot in as few words as possible, thus putting tremendous weight on each word, sentence, and paragraph. When Mike initially approached me about collaborating on Anything But Ordinary: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives,  I  thought this tightness would work against me; however, it is actually working to my advantage and is also keeping my voice and style in a comfortable place. Bonus!

I’ve divided the proposal into a few sections, each tackling a different aspect of the book. Again, this organization has made the work more pleasurable and less taxing. Seriously, the last thing a creative writer wants or needs is to follow a pre-fab proposal format. I have, of course, been influenced by Cricket Freeman’s article, “Nonfiction Book Proposals: Make Your Proposal Stand Out,” which  is found in the  2010 Guide to Literary Agents (19th Annual Edition), published by F+W Media, Inc. Ms. Freeman is very detailed and specific when discussing the changing trends in publishing, as well as how to put together a kick-butt proposal that goes the extra mile. Ultimately, that is my goal. I am not someone who does only what it takes to get by, I’m always running beyond the finish line. This trait has served me well in my personal and professional life.

Overall, I’d say this day was pretty great. I take pride in the fact that I have an organized creative process that allows me to avoid that mind-numbing paralysis that often happens to writers who are easily distracted and overwhelmed. Yay me!

~tbk

Public Service, That’s How I Roll

As the owner of a professional writing service, I am occasionally contacted by individuals who need to compose letters for various reasons. Last week I received one of these calls.

The woman who contacted me was denied unemployment benefits and is trying desperately not to turn into one of the casualties of a flailing state economy. From what she told me on the phone, she held a full-time position with a retail chain, and when her hours were cut below a 40 hour work week, sought a part-time job to supplement her income. It seems the woman was attempting to work her part-time hours around her full-time schedule. As time went on, her boss for the part-time stint let her go, explaining that they couldn’t work around her full-time schedule any longer. Shortly after, the woman lost her full-time position as well. Needless to say, she was devastated. Like Millions of others around our country, she headed to the unemployment line.

The reason she contacted me, she said, is that she was denied benefits because of a $326 dispute on the end of the part-time employer. Upon her initial denial, the woman appealed, and a second judgment was eventually reached: Denied!  Without knowing this woman personally, I can’t vouch for her on a personal level, but the simple fact that she was holding two jobs simultaneously to make ends meet gives me a good insight as to her work ethic. And although I am unable to reverse the judgment and help her financially, I can help her articulate her feelings and tell her story.

The woman, after completion of the letter, is planning to send it to a host of Michigan newspapers, news stations, and her state government officials. Although I’m sure she doesn’t expect that the letter will reverse her unemployment decision, the woman feels strongly about letting taxpayers and others know that honest, hardworking people are being denied benefits, thus adding them to the group of citizens who can’t afford their homes, default on credit cards, and can’t put food on the table.

As someone who possesses the gift of words and creating power from words, it moves me deeply to be able to give this woman a platform, to allow her voice to be heard. THIS is why I left Corporate America! The work I do through my business, Write Creations, matters. That’s right, it MATTERS. The best part, as a business owner with virtually no overhead, is that I can provide support for this woman free of charge.  Today, I will listen as she recounts her painful experience, her disillusionment with the system, and through the power of the pen, help her work towards closure.

This woman is why I do what I do.

~tbk

Outlining Success

Today I will be working on the outline for the book, Anything But Ordinary: Ordinary People, Extraordinary Lives, a task I began a few weeks ago in the wee hours of the morning. I stepped away from it just before the holidays, and am now ready to delve back in with fresh perspective. Sometimes it’s good to step away and regroup. Also, it helps that Mike and I have thoroughly discussed the layout of the book. Having this in place is a great asset in creating an outline.

I will also be exploring our interviewees on a much deeper level in the next few weeks. I know all of their stories, however, knowing their stories has created a host of questions that need to be resolved and explored. It’s very much an investigation. I thrive on learning about people, what makes them who they are, led them to the decisions they’ve made, etc. Humanity fascinates me, which is one reason that I’m the right person to co-author this book. Curiosity and inquisitiveness is an important quality to possess when writing a book like ours!

In recent weeks, I’ve been researching literary agents, as I’ve previously mentioned. This is a very consuming task, one that I’m going to put on the back-burner for a bit. I’m motivated to write, which is the whole point, right? One of the chaotic things about writing a book is that you have so much to do outside of the actual authoring. Preparing a quality book proposal, writing the ultimate query letter, and creating a well researched agent wish list, are all things that weigh heavily on an author’s mind. These things, collectively, take away from the actual writing of the manuscript. For me, the key is to allow myself the freedom to choose where my focus lies on a daily basis. Today, I am an outline chick and investigator!

Okay, I’m done rambling. Off to get some work done!

~tbk