Knowing I was under a great deal of stress, Yvonne DiVita, my publisher at WME Books, asked me if I needed anything. I jokingly responded: “How about a lobotomy?” (She said no way.)
We’ve been working closely together these past few months getting ready to release my book on internal marketing, Taking Care of the People Who Matter Most: A Guide to Employee-Customer Care. We’re in the editing phase, and it’s taken a bit longer than anticipated due to some scheduling conflicts. More recently, however, my availability has been limited due to serious family health concerns.
“It’s a hard knock life”
I’ve needed time in the past few months to be with my 82 year-old mother who was diagnosed with cancer. There have been various doctor appointments, major surgery, and soon she’ll start radiation treatments. My mother lives out-of-town (fortunately, I’m less than 90 minutes away) and when I can’t be with her, we rely on the support of “extended family” (i.e., wonderful friends and neighbors) in addition to our devoted relatives.
It’s been quite a juggling act, especially since I also want to spend as much time as possible with my brother, who is also battling cancer.
“Lean on me”
Throughout this ordeal, I’ve come to appreciate the tremendous support & encouragement offered by my friends, colleagues and clients. Since this is my first time working with a publisher, I’ve also learned that my publisher’s role goes beyond book development, production and promotion to include being coach, cheerleader and surrogate counselor. I don’t know if this holds true for all publishers; I feel extremely fortunate that empathy and extra hand-holding are part of Yvonne’s job description.
I’ve also learned to not worry about the “right” time for my book to be released – I was concerned that if the book wasn’t ready by early spring, we should avoid summer (peak season for more beach-reading than business-reading) and wait until fall to get it out. But being reminded how precious and short life is, it doesn’t make sense to hold it up. So I’m moving ahead with my book – allowing for family time as needed – and it will be released as soon as it’s ready.
Watch for the announcement of my book here. Your patience is appreciated.
One reply on “My Publisher Won’t Let Me Get a Lobotomy & Other Lessons in Finishing a Book When Life Gets in the Way”
Thank you, Sybil, for the words of support for the little things I try to do to help you along in this exciting endeavor. You have, indeed, had to suffer more trials than most, but you have handled them marvelously.
The evidence will be in the book – and it will be finished very soon. I am as excited about it as you are.