Yesterday, I signed the contract for my 11th book: “How to Lead by THE BOOK: Proverbs, Parables & Principles to Tackle Your Toughest Business Challenges.” It will be published by Wiley in June, 2011. My due date is December 15th. This will be my ninth book with Wiley. They’re the world’s largest business book publisher, and I value my relationship with them. The best thing about them, in my opinion, is that they don’t micromanage their writers. They let us write!
Since my last book with Wiley, “How to Run Your Business by THE BOOK: A Biblical Blueprint to Bless Your Business” has already gone into its fourth printing my editor, Dam Ambrosio, suggested that I write a follow-up. I’m really excited about this book, because I know that it’s going to help a lot of people.
For the next several months, I’ll use my blog to relay progress, share insights from the book, occasionally vent and give a play-by-play record of the journey that takes a book from the drawing board to the bookshelves. Some days I might only have a couple of lines to share, but my goal is to share at least a little something every day or so.
Along the way, I’ll solicit your ideas, feedback and stories; some of which may wind up in the book! Please leave comments or ideas here on the blog and I’ll respond to you.
The new book will read well cover to cover, but will also be suitable for use as a desk-reference. I plan on including between 70-80 strategies. Some will run for two paragraphs and others for three pages. I’ve already listed ideas for 74 topics, and I am in the process of selecting the best biblical examples to use in supporting each strategy.
I’ve been asked many times over the years, “What is the secret to writing a book?” Well, here it is: You’ve got to write the book! You start with an outline, and then start writing! You’ve got to take it from your head and put it onto paper. That being said, I had better follow my own advice and get moving. In fact, one of the 74 potential strategies I have in my outline is, “What is the best way to give feedback or advice?” I discovered some great material from Exodus 18 on how to do this. I’ll share it tomorrow.