I've been working on something in secret which feels so awkward since it's not how I do most things in business. I'm a big fan of share it before it's created so that whatever comes out on the other side is even better because your audience helped you build it. One of my favorite stories to share about this is with Yoga Challenge In A Box. I had the idea but everyone who engaged with me on social media and inside my membership actually helped me build the incredible product that has now helped hundreds of yoga teachers host their yoga challenge.
This method of sharing my ideas before I do anything with them has helped me build my business so the fact that I have kept something a secret from you is a bit strange for me. But it's finally time to share this secret project with you. Are you ready...
I wrote a book!
**This was also a podcast episode (episode #167. Use the player below if you'd prefer to listen to this message.
Guidance & Support Helped Me Write The Book
I signed up for a program because while I'm really good at getting things done, I had no freaking clue about what goes into writing a book. You gotta ask for help when you don't know what you don't know and this was one of those times. So I applied for a program and through a few steps, was accepted into that program and I'm so grateful I was. It ended up being the best program for me and it really opened my eyes to how important it is to know what you need when it comes to coaches and courses and programs.
I knew I needed structure and guidance but more importantly, I knew I needed a coach that wouldn't agree with everything I said. And boy is that what happened in this program! You're actually going to hear such a fun conversation next week with me and my book coach. I asked him - the professor of the program - to interview me about my book and that's actually how you will find out what my book is all about.
>> Learn more about the program I went through: Manuscripts
It's not my book...it's OUR book!
I want to go back to the idea of sharing a project before it's done because in true fashion, that's what I've done with the book too. It's true that I've written the first draft, 31,670 words to be exact, but that's not what will be printed. What will be printed next year will be SO MUCH better than what I have now and not just because I will be working with 4 more editors but because I want you to be part of the process with me.
Next week I'm actually opening up pre-sales for the book and anyone who pre-orders the book will actually be helping me finish the book. You will get the chance to be a beta reader if you want, you will help me pick the cover art and the title! You will be a critical part of the book and just like I have not built my business on my own, I don't want to finish this book on my own.
That quote of "if you want to go fast, go alone. But if you want to go far, go together" is so very true and I've learned that every step of the way in my entrepreneurship journey. Whenever I've tried to go alone, sure I can move quicker but it doesn't mean it's better. When I ask for help, support, or ideas, what comes out on the other end is so much better.
And I know this will be the case with my book. I've written what's in my heart already so the foundation is there but I need you to help me polish it up and make it even better.
So what do you say, will you help me finish this book?
Pre-orders will be open on Friday, November 18th and you will have lots of options to choose from. You can pre-order the book for $39 or there will be options at higher price points to get access to additional material and fun bonuses. From November to May of 2023 you'll help me make our book awesome, then in June of 2023 you receive a signed copy of the book with a special note of thanks from me.
Thank You!
Thank you dear friend. On one tough day when I thought "who am I to write this book?" I happened to check the podcast stats and saw that I had crossed the 100,000 downloads mark and I teared up immediately. I took a screenshot and said "thank you". You didn't hear me but I said it to you. And because of you, I kept going and so now I finally get to tell you so you can hear it. Thank you for all you do. It's because I believe in you that I keep going on those tough days.
I'm excited to share the conversation next week with you so be sure to tune in so you can hear me get super uncomfortable as the mic was turned and I was asked all the questions. Oh yeah, you'll hear me with my long pauses and nervous laughs. It's a good one!
Until next time give yourself permission to have a secret project every now and then and grace along the way. I'll talk to you soon.
“I have been working on a secret project all year and I finally get to tell you about it and I'm equally excited and nervous."
- Amanda McKinney
Learn More About Our Book
I'm thrilled to share this news with you and I can't wait for you to help finish OUR book!!! It's going to be so much better once your input is included. Stay tuned for more details on how you can join our book experience!