For years, people have told me I should write a book. Honestly, I thought this was something people just say. I never gave it any serious consideration until I opened my business in 2014. Then writing became appealing because it was a way to establish credibility and build my business.

I quickly outlined half a dozen topics I routinely share with leaders and thought writing the book would be easy-peasy. But every time I started a draft, I found my heart just wasn’t in it.

I was knowledgeable about the subject and even great at teaching in the corporate training arena, yet when I would start to write, it lacked luster. This was going to be my first book and I wanted to be passionate and proud of it. So, I stopped writing. Occasionally I would attempt a different topic and outline, ending up in the same place. My heart still wasn’t in it.

In 2017, I was invited to attend an evening event showcasing local authors. These amazing women shared their stories in a panel discussion led by their writing coach and publisher, Demi Stevens. Demi shared that we all have a story to tell and that she has devoted her career to helping get that story from your head to the page. I connected with her after the panel discussion and she encouraged me to reach out—of course, I never did.

A few months later, my friend and colleague, Amanda King, announced the release of her book, HR Made Simple—and guess who was her publisher and writing coach? Demi. Seeing Amanda share this amazing accomplishment, was the last push I needed to finally take the next step.

I went to Demi with no outline, just a bunch of random writings… stories I felt compelled to share. I had no idea how they related to each other, but I knew they were meant to be in this book. I could now feel it in my heart.

This book is just that—my heart exposed.

As you read, I hope you find that nudge needed to move you forward to the next great thing in your life. I hope to inspire you to move past fear and heal wounds of past hurt. I hope you recognize the beauty in the lessons of life, whether they are full of joy or difficulty. I hope you grow, become stronger, and more aware. Most importantly, I hope you enjoy it.