Whatever It Takes

Around the holidays I had a conversation with a friend from my time in the Financial Services industry. He’d continued in that line of work but branched out into some areas he’d considered more profitable and growth oriented. We’d spoken many times over the years and I’d considered him part of my extended family.

He’d noticed that during his business development activities, many of the speakers or vendors had a book for sale. We also talked about how a book is your 21st century business card. It also builds authority and your brand. He agreed and asked if I’d “ghostwrite” his book. Reluctantly, I agreed.

My hesitation wasn’t in the writing aspect of the project but rather my time constraints. It’s challenging enough to write for myself and my audience. It’s even more challenging to build out a publishing company that’s embracing technologies in a way its competitors are not. Finally, proving my concepts are viable, I knew, would be extremely time intensive.

With a finite amount of resources, I agreed. More so from a financial point of view, as my compensation would allow me to stay in the Philippines and continue my work. “I’ll write his book, get no author credit and be grateful for the opportunity. I’ll do whatever it takes to fulfill my purpose.”

Today, Friday, February 21, 2020, I am grateful that:

I received my first payment for my ghostwriting service. I’d probably be more celebratory but my financial needs are rather dire. The money came in just in the nick of time and will help sustain me for a bit longer.

I was able to have an open dialogue with a potential investor in the publishing company. Someone with the means to offer a cash injection but with no desire whatsoever to invest their expertise managerial or operationally.

The “potential investor” wasn’t even on my radar as a possible investor. I’ve got a short list of those I’d solicit an opportunity to “pitch” my idea and this investor isn’t on my list. Happy to have Him showing me who I think and where I’m looking isn’t always what He has in store.

How do you move towards your purpose?

Have you taken a “detour” just to stay afloat, knowing it would allow you to keep moving in the direction needed?

Do you keep your “ears open” when it comes to other possibilities?

Will you do “whatever it takes” to fulfill your purpose?