If you are like seemingly millions of other people, you are probably a fan of the New Yorker writer and best selling author Malcolm Gladwell. You know, he is the unbelievably successful writer who zeros in on a cultural/social phenomenon and produces an iconic piece that explores it from every conceivable angle (like he did on the subject of how things get very popular in "The Tipping Point").

The semi conservative columnist David Brooks wrote a glowing appraisal of Gladwell’s newest book, "The Outliers," in a recent NY Times. Gladwell’s newest effort focuses on the topic of what makes people successful. In the process, he debunks many of our assumptions. Of course, debunking long cherished assumptions is part of the Gladwell magic.

And, make no mistake, Gladwell is magical. His books appeal to almost everyone, and sell like mad. "The Tipping Point" is several years old and it continues to be on best sellers’ lists everywhere. It has become one of the those evergreen  books, like "What Color is My Parachute," which every job hunter buys in hopes of finding out how to find a great career.

I was on an early morning flight from NY’s Kennedy Airport to San Francisco a couple of years ago and Gladwell was sitting in the waiting area not far from me. He is pretty easy to spot, with his spikey hair. A youngish couple spotted him and proceeded to go into the bookseller right next store and buy his latest book. At the time it was "Blink" (which was all about the fascinating idea that very often your first idea/thought/solution ends up being the best one). They then brought the book to him to autograph. Ah, the life of an author superstar.

Like so many other bloggers — and particularly marketers — I also fancy myself becoming a best selling author one day. At least I would like to finally get a book completed. I have several non-fiction and fiction books rattling around in my head and my computer, but I recently came upon an idea that felt sort of Gladwellian to me. Who knows, perhaps I can deconstruct a social phenomenon, too, and turn it into a worldwide bestseller, just like Malcolm. Hey, a guy can dream, can’t he?

Here is my idea. The Power and Pitfalls of Momentum in Business and Life. Momentum is an incredibly powerful phenomenon and concept, but little is really known about it. I envision an exploration of what happens in creating and driving momentum in all dimensions of life. I’ll also look at what doesn’t happen. (Like Gladwell’s other books, there are many misconceptions about momentum.)

So, keep a look out for my new book on momentum. Who knows, I just might  build up sufficient momentum to make it a reality. I’ll be the guy being interviewed on The Today Show, just less hair.

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