He Threw the Book at Me But What I Did Next Was More Shocking
One day, I needed a copy of the book for a speaking engagement in the evening after work, so I had it sent to my workplace. When the parcel arrived, my boss grabbed it before I could stop him, assuming it was for him. He opened it, took one look at the book, and threw it back at me in disgust.
And what did I do? I apologised for it. I felt embarrassed and ashamed—not just of the book, but perhaps to have something to say.
It would take me 8 years to realise the significance of that moment—and that I should have walked out the door immediately.
I never fully promoted my book. I didn’t even have a book launch.
The Deeper Struggle
That moment wasn’t the direct cause of how I treated the book afterward, but writing this now, I can see it was a reflection of the deeper struggles I had with self-worth and identity—and why I struggled in business for so long.
If I wasn’t prepared to show up for my book, how could I show up for my business? My ambition? My goals?
What I’ve Learned
Here’s what I’ve learned since: You don’t have to apologise for your ambition. You don’t have to shrink yourself down just because someone else doesn’t see your value. If you’re not being valued, move on—and keep moving until you are.
I am also a firm believer that if you want to grow in life—start a business. It will push you to the very edge of yourself and you’ll have no choice but to do the work on yourself (and if you’re in this place today—it’s totally normal…and brave!).
My Book’s Impact
My book, Grass Roots to Green Shoots, has helped people. I’ve had messages from readers thanking me for the insights it gave them on their own journeys. But it’s a shame I let my own self-doubt stop me from sharing it more widely.
I even updated the book in 2020, during lockdown, but again, I didn’t tell anyone. It’s just been sitting on my shelf, smiling at me all this time. I wonder what it would say to me if it could…
Sharing It With You
So today, I’m telling you about it. And I’ll be posting wisdom from the book in the coming weeks, so hit ‘Like’ and give me a follow so you don’t miss out.
👉 If you’re holding back, doubting yourself, or downplaying your value, I want you to know: You deserve to take up space. You deserve to share your work, your voice, and your story without apology.
