I've been thinking about writing a book since sometime in 2003. That's eight years of thinking! 

My thinking process went something like this: "OK, I like the book that so and so wrote. I kind of like that format, that might work for me. Let me think about it."

Then a few days or a few weeks later I'd think: "No that won't work, that's not what I want. Guess I'll have to keep thinking." 

I went through that scenario about 20 times in eight years. 

Sometime in October, I went through the same thinking process again. I had an idea for an approach, a name for the book and a pretty good idea for the content and format. And after a few weeks, this idea actually stuck and I committed myself to writing it. 

And then another idea: "I'll go to my condo in Mexico for six weeks and write the book."  

I also realized that I couldn't put all my other work aside. I still had client meetings, running the Marketing Club, etc. But there was also a window between Dec 23 and Jan 4 where I'd have no meetings. On the other days I'd try to fit in some writing. 

To make a long story short, I've been here for about two weeks and have already written six chapters (out of 20). Looks like I'll be done or close to done in about two weeks. 

Now I'm not writing the eZine today to give you tips on writing a book. I'm hardly and expert and after all, it took me eight years to get down to it! 

But there's a saying that I've read a hundred times that really applies in this case:

Commitment

Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back.

Concerning all acts of initiative (and creation), there is one elementary truth, the ignorance of which kills countless ideas and splendid plans: that the moment one definitely commits oneself, then Providence moves too. 

All sorts of things occur to help one that would never otherwise have occurred. 

A whole stream of events issues from the decision, raising in one's favor all manner of unforeseen incidents and meetings and material assistance, which no man could have dreamt would have come his way. 

W.H. Murray - from "The Scottish Himalayan Expedition"

It's the end of one year and the new one is not far off. What will you commit to do in your business in 2012 that will move your business and your vision forward?

I hope it doesn't take you eight years!

Happy Holidays,

Robert Middleton

P.S. The name of the Book is: "Marketing Ball - Lessons on Attracting More Clients from the Marketing Coach"