Ask the Author: Rick Davis
Answered Questions (6)
Rick Davis
My writing coach and editor, Alexandra O'Connell had me establish a minimum word count for each time I sat down to write. Realistically anticipating writer's block, I established a 750 word minimum. I also listened to Alexandra's encouragement to just "bleed on the paper". Those two tips greatly assisted when I did hit the inevitable block because if I could crank out 750 words then I met my goal and I didn't walk away from the desk frustrated. I was also helped along by finding my best time to write, which for me began anywhere between 10:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
Rick Davis
I find writing to be a cathartic experience. As I wrote my book on leadership there were some bad experiences I described and I had to relive them. On the other hand, it was encouraging to reflect on the good experiences and the many fine leaders that have impacted my life over the years.
Rick Davis
Ask yourself why you want to write. If a person cannot answer that question then they should not take on the project because frustration will take hold and the endeavor will fizzle out. If you can answer the question (making money is not a good answer) then start writing down your ideas. I maintain a leadership journal where I write down my experiences, observations, and lessons learned. When I developed the outline for my book I drew from this information. Beyond that point, research what is the best approach for you: self-publishing or finding a traditional publisher. But in the end, you must know why you want to write.
Rick Davis
The Furnace of Leadership Development was published in September of 2019 so currently I'm concentrating on book sales and securing opportunities to speak and teach about leadership. However, I do have a few ideas for another book on leadership, but those will have to wait awhile.
Rick Davis
My wife played a major role with inspiring me to write. Inspiration also came from Polly Letofsky (My Word Publishing) and Susie Schaefer (Finish the Book Publishing) who along with my wife encouraged me to take on the writing project.
Rick Davis
Throughout the years I have been a student of the art of leadership and have had many opportunities to teach on the subject. I currently serve as a battalion chief (shift commander) with the Loveland Fire Rescue Authority in Northern Colorado. Consequently I devote a large amount of my time to developing other leaders who work for me. My wife, daughters, and others encouraged me to write a book for quite some time and in August of 2017 the idea came to fruition. The book is based on my leadership experiences beginning in high school and including time in the military and fire service. In the book I have a chapter about developing others, describing the concept of a gas furnace and the right amount of heat to make a paperweight. Hence, The Furnace of Leadership Development, Molding Integrity and Character in Today's World.
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