Two years ago today, I published The Overthinker’s Guide to Joy.
I wrote a book. An actual book. With a cover and everything.
After more than 30 years as a television executive, writing a book felt like a whole new adventure. It was also a bucket-list item, something I wanted to do simply to see if I could.
I checked that box. And then life carried on, as it tends to do.
But here’s what I didn’t anticipate.
Two years later, people still come up to me to tell me they’ve read my book.
Some keep it on their nightstands and revisit chapters when they’re feeling anxious or down.
Others have bought copies for friends who might need a little help finding their way back to joy.
Every month, I get a little notice that more copies have sold. It’s a small thing, perhaps, but it makes me smile. Somewhere out there, someone I’ve never met is reading words I wrote and, hopefully, finding something useful in them.
When I set out to write the book, I knew what I wanted to accomplish.
I wanted to share what I’d learned about overthinking, perfectionism, people-pleasing, and the often elusive quest of being happy with the life we’re living.
I didn’t know where the book would go once I let it loose in the world.
That’s the funny thing about setting a goal. We tend to focus on what it will mean to us if we accomplish it. We don’t always know what might come of it afterward, or who else might benefit.
Maybe there’s something you’ve been wanting to do. Something you’ve been putting off because you’re not sure you’re ready, or whether it will amount to much.
You don’t have to know the ending to get started.
Two years later, I’m still glad I did.
And if The Overthinker’s Guide to Joy somehow missed your nightstand the first time around, it’s still out there.
You can buy it or listen to it here.
Happy Wednesday!
-Jackie
