In a culture that often equates achievement with fulfillment, many people find themselves asking, “Why does something still feel off?” despite having successful careers, growing families, and achieved goals. Pastor and author Josh Wintermute addresses this universal struggle in his new book, Winning the Wrong Game, released today. Drawing from over two decades of pastoral ministry and personal trials, Wintermute offers a practical guide to examining the foundations of one’s life.
Wintermute, founder of Quiet Winters, argues that the problem isn’t just circumstances but the foundation on which we build. “After walking through some of the hardest seasons of my life, I came to realize that the problem wasn’t simply my circumstances. The problem was the foundation I was building on,” he said. The book focuses on three foundational areas: the heart, the home, and the culture. Instead of offering quick fixes, Wintermute challenges readers to identify what is broken, do the difficult work of restoration, and build something stronger.
The timing of the book is particularly relevant in a society that often celebrates external success while neglecting inner health. Wintermute believes many are silently carrying burdens that success alone cannot solve. He writes, “You are not as stuck as you think. You are not as alone as you feel. And you are going to make it.”
Wintermute’s journey to authorship was unexpected. “Honestly, I never wanted to write a book,” he admitted. After years of encouragement, he became open to the idea, and the process taught him obedience, surrender, and faith. The biggest challenge was narrowing thousands of thoughts into a clear message, requiring outside perspective and coaching.
Influenced by authors like Simon Sinek, Seth Godin, and N. T. Wright, Wintermute’s work blends practical wisdom with spiritual insight and personal vulnerability. “What sets this book apart is the honesty,” he said. “I talk openly about my failures, shortcomings, and struggles because that’s where God did some of His greatest work in my life.”
For those feeling stuck, Wintermute’s advice is simple: “You can do this. Start dreaming, surround yourself with people who know more than you do, learn from them, and begin writing.” At its core, Winning the Wrong Game is an invitation to stop patching cracks and instead rebuild from the ground up. Sometimes the breakthrough isn’t found in doing more, but in building differently.
The book is published by Lucid Books, an independent hybrid publisher in the Houston area that partners with authors to inspire and inform readers.
