Today, we’re introducing #PortraitsAndPages, where we’ll be sharing authentic insights into Wiley authors’ lives and writing journeys.
Alec Ingold, fullback for the Miami Dolphins, and author of ‘The Seven Crucibles: An Inspirational Game Plan for Overcoming Adversity in Your Life’ shares more about his journey here:
“My journey to writing began during one of the most challenging times of my life. As captain of an NFL team, I found myself sidelined by a torn ACL. Suddenly, my role shifted dramatically. I was no longer contributing on the field but was instead forced to listen, observe, and lead from a place of vulnerability. With long hours spent in the training room, I picked up books and rediscovered a love for reading that I hadn’t realized I’d lost. I started building a makeshift library in our team facility, hoping to share the inspiration I was finding in the pages of authors who opened their hearts with thought-provoking honesty. Each book became a vessel of inspiration, guiding me through the challenges of rehab.
It was during this time that I stumbled into journaling. Initially, my entries were just for me—an escape and a way to process my feelings. But as I continued, I felt a shift. My entries mirrored my physical progress, giving me a sense of purpose that motivated me to walk, run, and lift again. Then, before a crucial "win-and-in" regular season finale, I felt an overwhelming urge to share my journey. I wanted to reveal the magic happening inside our training facility, to connect on a deeper level before the results played out on the field. In that moment of vulnerability, I poured my heart into an open letter, fully aware of the risk. "What if people judged me for seeking attention when I hadn’t been competing? What if my honesty was met with hate filled comments?"
I posted it anyway, driven by the hope that my words could spread some good in the world. To my surprise, the feedback was overwhelmingly positive. I experienced firsthand the profound impact of sharing my innermost thoughts and feelings. This was new territory—far more daunting than facing opponents on the gridiron.
That letter resonated deeply with our fan base, breaking records online and landing on the front pages of local papers. At that moment, I realized that my rehab journey had to be shared. I felt a responsibility to voice the feelings of isolation and identity crisis that so many experience when faced with adversity. I wanted to show others how to view their challenges as opportunities for growth, just as I had. This book is more than just a collection of words; it’s a community. It’s a space for understanding, grace, and the kind of real conversations that need to happen. We all have a voice, and when the time is right, it’s our responsibility to share it. My hope is that through my story, others will find the courage to embrace their own journeys, recognizing that even in our darkest moments, we have the power to inspire and uplift one another.”
