Stepping into September, I am in officially in the “counting down” period of the book publication.
Time for a bit of reflection on this journey of self-publication! I have embarked a different journey from writing a book which took me 8 and half years. Hopefully it will be shorter if I meet the deadline in a few weeks’ time.
I felt like the process has taken a whole village of people (in a good way). Since I don’t have a publisher (by choice and by default), I am literally doing everything myself and “recruit” people (as many as possible) from my circle of friends and family. All in all, it has been an extremely rewarding experience for me particularly, from the perspective of personal development and self-discovery.
First of all, professionally, I have always been part of a much bigger “pie” and quite specialized in my work in large corporations. Self-publication and promotion (more my book than me as an individual) has prompted to look at the bigger picture as well as various aspects of a business (in my case, selling my book is my small business). For example, I signed up to Twitter a month ago to “get myself out there” in the social media is in itself an interesting experience. In addition, I have worked with my 17-year nephew Damian to come up with the book cover and business card in conjunction with consultation of other FFR (Friends and Family of Raymond!). My 12-year niece Cameron has been helping me on market research. My super-loyal editor friend Geoff took on the task of building this very website for me. My photographer friend Yvanne took my profile photos for the book and website. My friend Gary who helps me on what he called “executive assistant” work (vs. personal assistant work which apparently makes a HUGE difference in his mind).
I can go on and on, but you got the picture. It is indeed a village of FFR (Friends and Family of Raymond). For that and more, I am very grateful for all of you giving me a hand and/or a pat on the shoulder (I am sure “a kick on the back side” will come at some point :>) The journey continues…..