It’s been a while since I’ve sat down to write a blog post. My coffee cup has been full—but not with my usual latte musings. Instead, it’s been brimming with late-night writing sessions, endless editing rounds, and moments of both frustration and triumph. Why the hiatus? Because I’ve been pouring every ounce of my energy into my first book, Cup of Courage: The Key to Leading with Grace and Grit, launching on January 18, 2025!
As I sip my steaming cup of coffee while writing this, I’m reflecting on the journey—a process that has been as complex and rewarding as crafting the perfect cup. Each stage, from brainstorming ideas to finalizing the manuscript, required grit, patience, and a whole lot of caffeine.
The Roast: Where It All Began
Writing a book starts with a raw idea, much like a coffee bean before it’s roasted. My inspiration for Cup of Courage came from my years as an educator and leader, navigating challenges and celebrating successes with my teams. I’ve always believed that educators have stories worth sharing—a treasure trove of wisdom steeped in experience. This book is just a small part of my journey, a way to give back and empower others to lead with grace and grit.
But let me tell you, the “roast” phase wasn’t easy. Deciding what to include, what to leave out, and how to structure it felt overwhelming at times. Like any good roast, it took precision, trial and error, and the courage to trust the process.
The Brew: Turning Ideas into Reality
Once the ideas were in place, it was time to brew them into something meaningful. This stage demanded discipline and consistency. I carved out time in the early mornings and late nights—moments when the house was quiet and my mind could wander freely. Some days the words flowed like a perfect pour-over, and other days they felt more like a clogged espresso machine.
It was during these tough days that I leaned into my own philosophy of grit. Leadership isn’t always smooth, and neither is writing a book. Both require you to show up, even when it feels hard, and to keep going when you’re tempted to stop.
The Cup: Sharing the Finished Product
Now, as the book nears its launch date, I feel a mix of emotions. There’s excitement, of course, but also vulnerability. Sharing this book with the world is like handing someone a cup of your most personal brew and hoping they savor it. My hope is that Cup of Courage serves as a source of inspiration for leaders, educators, and anyone navigating the complexities of leadership with determination and heart.
I’ve come to realize that the writing process mirrors the journey of leadership itself. It’s messy, humbling, and full of moments where you question yourself. But it’s also deeply rewarding and transformative.
What’s Next?
As I gear up for the book launch on January 18, 2025, I’m ready to re-engage with this blog and share more about the lessons I’ve learned along the way. Educators, leaders, and coffee lovers—this book is for you. It’s a reminder that we all have something valuable to share, and sometimes the biggest step is just starting.
Thank you for being part of this journey. Let’s raise our cups—to courage, to grit, and to brewing something extraordinary together.
With gratitude and a latte in hand,
Julianne Lang

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