If you have read straight through this book, you have covered a lot of ground. With so much information to consider, the path forward can seem daunting. Fortunately, you have a guidebook on hand to help you find your way.
If you are a new manager, don't worry if that feeling of being lost in the woods is still with you. At ground level, the trees look similar and they all block your view, but don't wander around the forest floor hoping to find yourself somewhere you want to be. Instead, change your perspective regularly—climb a tree to get above the forest so you can view the landscape. A manager needs to be able to see the big picture and understand how his or her hard work relates to it. Consequently, make a regular effort to revisit the high-level view of your company and your development efforts. If you don't like what you see, make changes. To sum it up: Stop, assess, and then act.
A little retrospective thinking can also help. Think about where you've been and where you are now. If you like people, software, technology, and management, your job should be exciting and fun overall. If you haven't felt that way in a while, shake yourself awake and ask why work isn't energizing. This will lead you to change either where you are spending your time, what you are prioritizing, or how you are leading. It can also lead you away from your current company.
Remember that being the development manager isn't about ego, job perks, being in charge, or other direct benefits to you. It's about you guiding your team to success. Good management means supporting your team, helping development staff grow, treating team members fairly, and helping the business along. Treating others well may not always advance your career, but it will make you a good manager who earns the respect of your team, boss, co-workers, and ultimately yourself. And that will make the journey worthwhile.