One year ago I released my first children’s picture book, Bobby, Get a Hobby!
I was home recovering from minor surgery and knew I needed something to throw myself into, a creative project to distract myself. I don’t do idle.
There was no “master plan” or grand ambition for the book — no true goal. My expectations were low. I just knew it was something I wanted to do: Write something that helps counteract the negative effects of too much screen time for our kids.
I didn’t know that it was a project that would teach me so much and satisfy me so deeply.
I’m terribly proud of the book, and it’s a gift that keeps on giving.
It’s proof that sometimes an idea is enough. I’ve heard from so many people about books they have written and shelved…or ideas that they have that get shoved aside.
My advice is always the same: Get it done. It’s always worth it.
Don’t be scared. Don’t let time or money get in the way. There is always a path, you just have to go out and carve it yourself.
The friends and family members who sent me photos of their children reading the book or shared stories on how their kids have reacted to it, far outweigh any sale. These moments are so flattering and humbling and motivating.
There are plenty of things I have gotten more clicks on and made more money from, but that’s never what it was about in the first place. It was just a feeling. And even in this data-driven, algorithmically frustrating world, feeling, more often than not, is still more than enough. Feeling!
I only say this to push YOU to bring that creative project to life. Leave perfection and your ego behind.
It’s worth it.
Let’s help counteract the negative effects of too much screen time for kids!
So happy first birthday, Bobby Get a Hobby!, can’t wait to see what’s next. 🙂
