Acknowledgments

Writing a book is work—hard work. You know this will be the case going in, but you can’t possibly imagine just how hard it’s really going to get until you’re up to your neck in the process (and by then it begins to feel suspiciously like a noose). To all who helped me bring this book to life, please know that no expression of thanks will ever be a sufficient representation of the depth of gratitude I feel.

First, to my beautiful wife, Natalie, who came to my rescue through countless long days and dozens of sleepless nights and helped me translate my thoughts and research into graceful, relevant, readable art. (I love you, Nat!) To my remarkable children for their unconditional love and patience. To my amazing parents, grandparents and parents-in-law for their unyielding support, selfless sacrifice, and ceaseless encouragement. To my brother, sisters, their spouses and each of my nieces and nephews for being such an inspiration to me. Family is everything, and mine is the best.

To two of my heroes, Sheri Dew and Chris Schoebinger, for first believing in me and this book project and for welcoming me into the Shadow Mountain Publishing family with such conviction and enthusiasm. To my editors, Lisa Mangum and Leslie Stitt for their truly angelic patience, persistence, and precision. To Gail Halladay, Richard Erickson, Brad Haslam, Dallas Petersen, Scott Christley, Dave Kimball, Mike Jensen, Chrislyn Barnes Woolston, Erin Hallstrom, Lee Broadhead, John Rose, Lonnie Lockhart, Sonia Larson, and the whole Shadow Mountain team for catching the vision behind the message, and for going the extra mile (or ten) to make this book a success. 

To the vastly talented Erin Jane Riley for breathing life into this project through her amazing art. To Barry Hansen for designing the models with such acute attention to detail. To Rachael Ward for slaying the typesetting dragon and presenting these words with elegance.

To the late Dr. Stephen R. Covey for being a supreme example and mentor. To Stephen M. R. Covey for taking me under his wing with such gracious and genuine care. To Seth Godin for leading the way. To Jack Canfield for guiding me through “breakthrough” experiences. To Andy Andrews for teaching me the behind-the-scenes realities of writing and presenting. To Devin Graham for inspiring me with his fierce dedication to making dreams happen. To Chris Bennett for his loyalty and wise guidance. To Jase Bennett for his treasured example and friendship, and for being such a willing and valuable sounding board. To Dal Zemp for taking a chance on me.

To all those who believed in this message (and in me) and took the precious time to endorse and promote this book. In particular, thanks to my unbelievable father-in-law, Greg Link. Greg, I am absolutely humbled by your contribution.

To the hundreds of individuals I interviewed over the years who offered me such an intimate and authentic look into their lives—this book would not exist without each of you.

And of course, thanks to you, the reader, for taking the message of this book and running with it. You thrill me to no end!

Most of all, I thank my loving Father in Heaven for all the blessings, purpose, potential, and joy this life has to offer.