“It will likely take longer than you think and require more discipline to complete, but the journey itself can be life-changing if you are open to the lessons and willing to let it have its own life.”
Linda Commito
How did you get started writing your book? Or what inspired your book?
About three years ago, I was feeling discouraged and disheartened every time I watched or read the news. I wondered, “Is this what the world is all about?”
One day, during my morning meditation, I clearly heard an answer: “Love is the new currency.” I thought, “Wow! That’s so beautiful. But what am I supposed to do with this message?”
That was the beginning of my journey to find what is hopeful and meaningful in people’s lives and what they are doing to create it. Over the next two and a half years, I serendipitously met everyday people who were changing lives through ordinary and extraordinary acts of love and kindness. Love Is the New Currencyis a collection of these inspirational stories, and also includes 111 ways that people are making a difference in the world, all of which will leave you feeling uplifted and hopeful.
What was the hardest part about completing your book?
The hardest part about completing Love Is the New Currency was getting out of my own way, letting go of ego and expectations, and allowing things to flow naturally. I kept setting deadlines and pushing myself to complete the book until the day a friend sat me down and said, “Linda, natural childbirth is a much better way to go than using forceps.” I finally GOT IT!
Did you learn any lessons in the book creation process, if so what were they?
The lessons that I learned in the book creation process were:
1. Everything has its right and perfect timing. In fact, the book launch took an additional eight months, well beyond the 20 month deadline that I had set. And I am so grateful that I waited, because it took my full heart-centered effort to birth this “beautiful baby”!
2. When we stop holding on so tight, there is a much greater opportunity for things to flow more easily and effectively.
3. Letting go of expectations creates the space for synchronicities and magic to happen.
Did you enlist support in getting your book done? If so, what kind of support?
I believe in hiring talented people to share their advice and expertise and to be a part of the creation process. To that end, I enlisted the support of editors, graphic and interior designers who brought their own insights to the book. For example, at one point, I brought my manuscript to one editor, who asked, “Where are you in this book?” I had a wonderful collection of stories, but had not put anything about myself in it. I went back and added stories, anecdotes and reflections from my own life that made the book more personal and relatable. At this same editor’s suggestion, I also added questions at the end of each series of stories that would engage the reader at a deeper level.
What tips or advice do you have for aspiring authors?
The tips that I would have for aspiring authors are:
1. If you have a passion for writing and a deep desire to express your own unique voice and message to the world, then go for it! It will likely take longer than you think and require more discipline to complete, but the journey itself can be life-changing if you are open to the lessons and willing to let it have its own life.
2. Writing is only a small part of the process. You will spend far more time editing and marketing, but it is what will take it from “good to great.”
3. Find the right people to guide the process and help you to bring it to a successful completion.
4. Even if publishing your own book seems like a distant goal, hold onto your dream and passion and don’t let anyone talk you out of it.
If you self-published, what made you self-publish?
I chose to self-publish and didn’t even pursue the alternative. Self-publishing has opened doors for so many people to express their stories, truths, insights and messages to the world. It has been a great equalizer for anyone who has the desire, talent, and commitment to share their unique views and visions.
I also believe that self-publishing offers more artistic freedom and creative direction (i.e. everything from what the cover should look like to where you choose to market your book.) I enjoy being a maverick and a pioneer. What I have learned is that you are ultimately responsible to market your own book, whether you have a publisher or not, and I decided that I could hire talented people along the way to help.
If you had to do your book all over again, would you?
I am very happy with Love Is the New Currency, which is the fulfillment of my dream of writing a book that could make a difference in the lives of others. I have put my heart and soul into this creation. There’s a tremendous amount of love in this book, from those who shared their stories, to the editors, designers, friends and anyone who contributed their suggestions, critiques, and support with such open hearts.
I have met many incredible people who have given me a more positive and hopeful outlook than I have had in years. This life-changing journey has been a rich, heart opening experience that I wouldn’t trade for anything.
Are you writing or planning to write an additional book(s)?
Yes, I am planning on writing more books. I am working on a companion workbook, and am already starting to collect stories about the ripples of kindness that are already taking place as a result of people’s inspired actions after reading the stories in Love Is the New Currency. And I am exploring other ideas for future books.
What else would you like to share about you or your book?
It has been a tremendous gift to be able to write this book and to share it with others. My hope is that it helps to create a kinder, friendlier, more positive and loving world.
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