Lloyd A. Luna is the youngest best-selling author in the Philippines and Asia who wrote and published his own book at age 23. How amazing?
“They turned me down.” —Lloyd Luna
I chose a different respond after they said, "No." I said, "This is amazing!"
It was sometime in July when I was sitting at a coffee shop wondering what would happen to my career after leaving an events company where I served as a consultant for eight months. It was not really a good break up (or is there something like a good one?). Nonetheless, I was on my own rethinking about my life and career.
Please note that I at that coffee shop, on my table was not a cup of coffee. Having no money to buy one, I would ask the waiter for a glass of water or so. There were good reasons to sour grape about life as there were equally good reasons for me to dig a little deeper and know myself once more.
Curious about what people might be asking themselves, I ran through some “frequently asked personal questions.” I’d choose several people and guess what they might be asking. There were good questions like, “Am I going to pass the exam?” or “Where do I get the money to pay for my debt?”
I did that for another reason. I told myself that if ever I’d be able to provide them with some help to find the answer, it would give me some things back (including some cash, of course!).
After a couple of hours sitting there and playing around the minds of these “innocent” mall-goers, I found one interesting question: Is There A Job Waiting For Me? Good question? Unquestionably, yes. And then I rushed back home, turned on my PC (I am a Mac user now), and started what would have been the first best-selling book I wrote.
In 15 days, I was able to finish the manuscript. Writing a book isn’t really difficult. At least especially if you have a real strong reason to do it. In my case, I thought that’s the only way I can take so I will have to do it. Otherwise, I would apply to companies and be another employee in another “some time.”
One thing I didn’t ask when I was writing the book was “Who’s going to publish and print it?” Of course it’s a valid question. But at the time I thought there’s no answer yet. So I made a deal with myself: Finish the work and cross the bridge when I get there.
I had the manuscript printed. I started to approach some friends and some publishing companies, big and small. And the only phrase I could remember is, “I’m sorry.” It was a clear rejection for whatever valid reasons they may have. I’m not sure if they don’t just have the money or resources to help me get the book out. Or, perhaps it’s just not part of their priorities.
It didn’t discourage me. I believed in my work. I believed in its ability to help people on their career. I believed that one or two things can solve this. This cannot be buried and forgotten. This book must be out.
In 2005, website design was a lucrative way to make money. With a little research on how to create a website, I was able to learn it in less than two weeks. Spending long hours of studies isn’t a joke. It was tiring but I must admit I enjoyed every bit of it. It’s irritating sometimes but I guess it’s nothing but an important parcel of success.
True enough, I was able to get the money to print the books. But not yet. It’s a hard-earned money. I can’t just spend it like that. Somehow, I had one reservation. My intention was legitimate—to help. But are they going to buy it? I was not sure but I think there’s a way to secure my intention and money.
Do you want to hear the rest of the story?