I Have a New Love
This week I have a new love and it's even closer to home. Well, actually in my home. Michael Hearns, my husband, is an author. My new favorite author! Shhhhh, don't tell him but as an avid reader, I've loved authors before him. But in all fairness to me, and to him, Michael didn't start out as an author. That's a career he launched just last year. Before that Michael had a colorful career in law enforcement in South Florida. He spent a decade as an undercover detective posing as a money launder. He has also investigated serial crimes as a profiler. He's lived a life that movies are made from and that inspired books.
It is that background and experience, mixed in with a healthy dose of imagination and a strong working knowledge of the darker side of Miami that lead him to write two novels.
His first book, Trust No One released in February of 2020. The second, a sequel, Grasping Smoke, released this May. (The photo above is of his books on the shelf at a bookstore, The Bookshelf, in Thomasville, GA)
I recognize that I am completely biased, and I'm not denying it. But part of what has me loving these two books isn't just the man, it was also watching the process. He set aside his fears of failure and rejection and dove into something totally new. Something totally uncharted. Something which invites criticism and judgement. His creativity and talent and lack of experience was thrust right out there for EVERYONE to see, read and evaluate. Every awkward sentence and every typeo printed in stark black and white, while his Facebook page and his website are a public forum, inviting comments and corrections. And he received some too!
But the second book went smoother than the first, although no doubt requiring an equal amount of vulnerability and energy on his part.
Although he is retired, he is still chasing bad guys in his books, and he isn't resting. Now he's doing it within the pages of his novels. He has already begun working on book number three in the series. I can't wait.
I'm more proud of Michael than I can express. Not just for being the author of such great novels, but for being an amazing example of courage and commitment to one's aspirations.
"People can either inspire you or drain you. Pick wisely."
Sip & Strategize
As a strategy and leadership coach I work with amazing people. One of the things that has been reinforced to me during the process is that everyone, even those who are already successful, has to stretch and strategize to get to the next level.
Wondering what the next level looks like for you? Get yourself a cold cup a something and schedule a virtual coffee and let's chat.
I also provide leadership coaching to support strategy implementation. This is a great way to grow your team too. Curious? Reach out and let's connect.
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