A few months ago, I told my community I’d finished a new prescriptive memoir about how I learned to give my all without losing myself, and that it was on submission. I asked for your positive thoughts, and you generously offered them. Thank you.
While the proposal was under review by editors, I shared an early read with twelve women to see whether the spiritual download I received during the writing process truly resonated. It felt right to me, but I know personal catharsis can feel just like purpose—fitting and freeing. I wondered if the resonance was mine alone. The feedback I received was consistent, especially from Black and brown women:
“A beautiful reminder that beyond titles and accomplishments, who we are is rooted in what we believe, how we love, and what we’re willing to give.”
“This book is transformative. It literally moved me to say the ‘no’ I needed to say.”
“More than a book, it’s a reckoning. Thank you for giving us back to ourselves.”
“A soulful companion and a must-read for any leader who is yearning to live and inspire with more depth, clarity, and purpose.”
“Salve for the soul.”
“Not all memoirs are created equal. This one is a standout.”
“This is more than a book; it’s a mirror, a call to action, a powerful affirmation of worth.”
Around the same time, I launched the newsletter you’re reading now and included snippets of the book to test the helpfulness and hopefulness of my stories. I figured that if people subscribed, I would have social proof of a “there” there. In a few short months, more than fifteen thousand of you opted in. I felt optimistic.
And then…one after another, editors passed on the proposal. There were varying reasons why, but the most common was a perceived disconnect between my book premise and my professional platform. Even though they loved the concept and were extremely complimentary of my writing, they weren’t confident that people (you) would want to buy a self-help(ish) book from me (a business leader) about braving the enduring conflict between saving the world and saving yourself.
To be honest, I felt misunderstood, because I’m so much more than a consultant. But I also believed that the seventy-thousand-plus people who follow me were being underestimated. My community is multi-dimensional. We are all the things, all at once. We learn not only from experts, but also from each other, and the stories of and by people who remind us ourselves make us feel seen and fortified.
If I know nothing else, I know this: every day, as we decide whether and how to stay on whatever pothole-laden road we may be traveling, we need reminders that our value is not tied up in our titles, achievements, or personas. We need to remember—and then own—our God-given right to be before the world.
For he chose us in him before the creation of the world. (Ephesians 1:4)
So, I’ve decided to self-publish in partnership with a Black woman-owned media house. Together, we will birth this book so the seekers can find it, the lovers can share it, and the learners can keep it close—for their breakdown days, their breakthrough days, and all the days between.
Here’s the WIP overview:
The morning of November 6th, 2024 found Tara Jaye Frank on her literal knees.
Having survived childhood silencing, adult heartbreak, and the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship to build a thriving, equity-centered business, she knew the road ahead would be treacherous. She also knew that women like her—those who plant seeds of change and spend considerable time and effort watering them—would need to fight their way to the coveted space between leaving it all on the field and opting out entirely.
This middle ground isn’t just about resting. And it’s far more than positive thinking. It’s something else—a new way to show up for ourselves and others that doesn’t leave us naked and afraid.
In this humble offering that redefines the pursuit of balance as a deeply personal voyage, Tara Jaye Frank shares her own restoration story and the many practical ways she’s learned to sustain herself as a helper in a world that needs so much help. Filled with hard-earned wisdom, practical guidance, and permission to be, You Are Before the World will soothe your soul and strengthen your spine, providing loving reminders and the real-world ammunition you need to honor yourself while living, loving, and leading a life of significance.
This is my announcement, Family.
Just as I often encourage, I will do what I “can’t not” do. I will open doors, leap over barriers, and usher this project toward the light. With your support, I will make a way for it as I’ve made a way for so many others—one brave act at a time. What I will not do is stay in my lane.
If you want to receive book news, please subscribe here: https://tarajayefrank.com/subscribe-for-email-updates/
More soon, like the publication date, and ways to be before the world with me as we near the big day.
Thanks for being here. I appreciate your care more than you know!
Tara Jaye Frank
