I recently sent the completed manuscript of the 3rd edition of my book, Beyond Talent, to my editor at Oxford University Press. If you imagine that a new edition involves a few updates of statistics and some added examples, guess again! At least in this case, it was a complete re-think and overhaul. It took more than a year of research and writing, and at times, the project had me feeling lost and defeated. If you’re anything like me, big projects are hero’s journeys and inevitably bring up your demons. So I’m happy to report I made the deadline: it’s done for now: whew!
But I didn’t do it alone: I had help from friends and colleagues—and much inspiration from my amazing clients (YAY!).
And I feel especially fortunate to have had YOUR help, dear reader.
THANK YOU!
Writing these Monday Bytes each week—and responding to the questions and comments that folks send in—has been a terrific boost. It’s kept me fascinated with learning new tools and strategies to help musicians advance their careers—and it has very much shaped the new edition.
My goal in writing the third edition was to directly address the fears and mindset challenges that limit creative artists. Because the practical “how-to” information is not enough. Along with tools, people often need help getting beyond their self-limiting beliefs and assumptions.
For the past year I’ve been researching, reading, interviewing, and reflecting on these issues and re-casting the book. The journey has been a wild ride. And it’s not over yet: my editor will be getting back to me with recommended changes and questions and it’s still a long haul until I can announce the book release, but no matter what, I’m SO grateful for the process.
The first edition of Beyond Talent came out in 2005 (I can’t believe it’s been that long!) and the second in 2010. Re-conceiving this 3rd edition has given me the chance to synthesize and streamline what I’ve learned in the 6.5 years of writing these weekly posts. The blog and YOU have helped me strengthen my focus to help more musicians dream big, plan smart, live well.
Having a creative project that challenges us on multiple levels is one of the best things we can do for our careers. And the best kinds of projects are those that pull together our WHOLE selves: our emotional, intellectual, artistic, and spiritual dimensions. That’s what the book project has done for me.
My question for you: What’s your current creative project, your hero’s journey? What’s been your biggest challenge with it? And what’s helping you stay on track, inspired, and productive?
Special thank you gift: In this season of thanks, I’m happy to offer readers a complimentary career project strategy session. Let’s clarify your goal, prioritize your actions, and look at reframing the limiting beliefs that may be holding you back. Email me by Nov. 30 at Angela@BeyondTalentConsulting.com to grab yours! Sessions will be scheduled through Dec. 15, 2017: this way, you can set yourself up to make 2018 your best year yet!
As always, I welcome your comments and questions: reach me at Angela@BeyondTalentConsulting.com. And if you’d like to discuss your career goals, and find out how coaching can help you achieve them, let’s talk!
Looking forward to hearing from you,
Dream Big, Plan Smart, Live Well!
