Book Signing

I just had my first book signing this weekend @ Jesse's Restaurant in Magnolia Springs, Alabama. I would like to thank two people who were instrumental in the success of this event. Cynthia Rush handles the public relations for Jesse's and put this event together. Nicole Houser is the manager of Jesse's, and was very gracious as the host for the book signing. If you ever have the chance to eat there, I can promise you will enjoy their food & the atmosphere.
http://www.jessesrestaurant.com.

One of the most interesting things I've found since publishing my book, "An Act of Congress - The Real-Life Story of Power & Politics in Family Business", is how many families have experienced some level of consternation with businesses, estates and many other relationships. The common thread seems to be that those involved never anticipated the problems that occurred. Instead of communicating to their loved ones (and sometimes "unloved" ones) prior to a decision time (e.g. - death of majority owner in the family business, or estate holder), most of them assumed it would be easier to put off that uncomfortable conversation. The truth is that they were afraid of reality and simply felt that "hoping" was a valid strategy. It isn't!

As I tell the story of "An Act of Congress...", I'm offering others the opportunity to use my experience as an opening point for discussing how they can avoid future disaster. The "knowing" looks of those purchasing my book tells me that they have experienced some feud in the past, or in many cases, are expecting one in the future.

My wish is that my book can be used early in the process of starting a business, or any family venture, with the knowledge that no matter how unpleasant or awkward it may feel to talk now, the pain of unpleasant surprise is infinitely more hurtful! I'll talk about this a lot more in future blogs & articles, but for now, buy my book...read it...and, pass it on to those in your family or close relationships. It may just open the conversation that allows for a lifetime of pleasure rather than heartache!