When Andrea emailed me, she told me, "I want to write a book. Can I hire you to help?"
I said, "Sure. Tell me more. What are your goals for this project?"
Normally when I ask this question, clients tell me:
"I want to hit The New York Times bestseller list."
"I want my book to reach as many readers as possible."
"I want to parlay my book into a speaking career. I see myself doing a TEDTalk."
Those goals are very exciting and worthy of pursuit.
But Andrea told me something different.
She said, "It's not a book that I want to share publicly. Actually, it's a book for my kids."
She explained, "I want to write a book of love letters and advice for my children. I want to share everything I've learned about life so far. All the values I want them to carry forward."
She continued, "One day, after I am gone, my kids will be able to keep this book. They can read it whenever they're stressed or uncertain about what to do. They will always be able to hear mama's voice. They will know that I am close."
By this point, I was sobbing and told Andrea, "I'm in."
Over the next several months, Andrea poured her immense love into this project. It became a very long book. She had a lot to say — and she said it beautifully.
She has six kids, runs a small business, and has a very busy schedule. She found pockets of time to write in between school drop-offs, packing lunches, and wiping sticky little fingers and faces.
She was a woman on a mission — resolutely determined to finish this book. No matter what. No excuses. Nothing would stop her.
I advised her, edited the manuscript, and helped bring the project to completion. I urged her to record an audiobook, too, so her kids could read the printed book and listen to her voice speaking aloud.
Her book is done.
What an incredible gift to impart to these kids. More than a book. It's a legacy.
I've worked on hundreds of writing and publishing projects over the last decade. Quite a few of my clients have become best-sellers, award-winners, internationally recognized for their contributions. That's always wonderful to see.
But my favorite project of the last decade?
Andrea's book. Hands down.
. . .
To whoever is reading this, this is what I want you to know:
Something doesn't necessarily need to be a best-seller (or massively financially successful) in order to be remarkable and important.
The most meaningful project of your life might also be the quietest or most private.
It is okay to do an art project that is exclusively for your neighborhood, your family, or kids.
It is okay to do a project that is just for you, for your own personal healing and growth.
Your big project matters.
Your tiny project matters.
It all matters.