Before we talk about your book and new business venture, what was it you did in a previous incarnation?
I’ve done all sorts of things, but most notable are: backpacking, English teaching, outback bus driving, stand-up comic before I became a surprisingly successful entrepreneur. An author was never in my wish list of things I wanted to be before I snuffed it.
So tell us a bit more about your soon to be available book, what inspired you to write it? (Did you have a spare half hour or something?)
When I was approached by Pearson to write a ‘Success’ book, I did explain that any success I have had has been down to a philosophy that I have been studying and practising for the last 18 years based around a 12 Step Programme. The 12 steps come from the original programme of Alcoholics Anonymous and this way of life has been practiced by millions of people since 1935. The Commissioning Editor was like many people who had heard of the 12 steps but didn’t know what they were. So I went on to explain them to her in the Starbucks in Borders in Leeds and she said there and then ‘Please will you write a version of these steps for members of the general public?’ So I got agreement from AA in New York and the rest is history really.
What I do know to be a fact is that the philosophy outlined in the book ‘Fulfilled- A Personal Revolution in 7 Steps’ can assist anyone, no matter what issue or challenge they face. It is just a marvellous blueprint in how to live.
So, what I lack in literary skills, I have plenty of life experience and knowledge of the WORLD’S BEST KEPT PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT SECRET. That’s why I wrote the book and that’s why I honestly hope as many people as possible get their hands on it.
Who do you think the book would appeal to? Who do you imagine reading it, and what do you hope they do at the end of it?
The book would appeal to anyone who
a) Thinks: ‘There’s got to be more to life than this’
b) Wonders: what true fulfilment and contentment really is
c) Wants: a practical – no nonsense process to get this feeling in their lives
If you were given the freedom of Leeds what would you get up to?
I would organise the ‘Leeds Cringe Festival’ based in pubs/bars/cafes in Headingley. A bit like ‘Britains Got Talent’ but for punters like you and me. A whole day of howlers. I think it would be great fun, don’t you?
So this doesn’t come across like we work for OK magazine, tell us something that will make you seem mortal! (nothing fungal please!)
I love food too much and have even stooped to buying smaller plates to limit my portions
What have you done recently that fed your thirst for culture?
Helped my husband Bryan write his first play.
You can find out more about Deirdre on her website