This week, we are giving away THREE copies of Jeff Goins‘ book The Inbetween: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing. Jeff is a full-time author, blogger, and speaker. He frequently speaks and writes about how to make a difference in the world through our words and actions. You can follow him online at goinswriter.com.
I recently had the chance to ask Jeff a few questions about his book:
Jeff: The In-Between is about that space in between the major moments in life — the space where we really spend our lives. Many of us are moving so fast that we’re tempted to look on to the next big thing before we finish what’s right in front of us. This is a book of stories from my life about how I slowly learned to be patient and embrace all life has to offer in the present. Through my own tales, I share how when we embrace the in-between we can lead lives of greater significant, deeper joy, and enduring gratitude.
What were the biggest challenges or struggles during the writing process?
When I was writing this book, I struggled with how to present the information. I wanted to communicate how transformative these lessons were for me, but I also didn’t want to be too obvious. Part of what’s so significant about the in-between — any seemingly mundane time that teaches us a profound lesson — is how inconspicuous it is. These smaller, less-than-extraordinary moments teach us subtly, and I wanted the book to do the same. Since I’d never written much memoir and the book is essentially a series of nonfiction essays, I called on a couple friends to help me edit it. And boy, am I glad. I think the way the ideas connect with the stories (and even some of the custom interior artwork) is pretty cool.
What do you hope will happen in the reader’s heart and mind after they finish with the book?
I hope every reader realizes, as I did, that what we do with the small moments is really an indication of what we do with ALL of life. We either relish it or waste it. We embrace every moment or throw them away, waiting for something “better” to come along. My goal for the book is that it inspires others to let go, slow down, and be grateful. That’s what my in-between times teach me, anyway.
What 3 books have most impacted your life and ministry (besides the Bible)?
I loved Seth Godin’s book The Icarus Deception. That was a great challenge to focus on the “art” of what I do. I also really appreciated Robert Greene’s Mastery — a great look at why you should not only be good, but great, at what you do. And I finally got around to reading The Reason for God by Tim Keller; it was excellent.
Check out the trailer for The Inbetween: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing. (RSS Subscribers, click here to view.)
To win ONE of THREE copies of The Inbetween: Embracing the Tension Between Now and the Next Big Thing, leave a comment below. Winners will be selected and announced on Friday.
Do you find yourself in the in-between right now? What season of life are you waiting for or wishing away?
