Change is a challenging and difficult process for all. It can come in an instant, unbidden. Organizations and businesses know that, however paradoxical, change is a constant in any industry. Keisha A. Rivers’ Equipped for Change is, essentially, a blueprint for organizations to identify and integrate strategies that will enable them to heighten engagement, cultivate learning, and enhance leadership.
No stranger to sudden change, Keisha A. Rivers survived a harrowing Hurricane Katrina experience and has now become a successful speaker, change agent, and corporate learning leader. Her work centers on three main areas: engagement, learning and leadership. She has over fifteen years of experience under her belt in the strategic consulting and organizational development space. Her nonprofit, The KARS Institute for Learning and Collaboration, helps emerging community groups and nonprofits by providing opportunities for collaboration, training, and development.
Keisha on working with SPARK Publications.
Fabi and her team at SPARK Publications were absolutely phenomenal to work with! They made the process easy to understand and were right there to answer all of my questions, and to guide me in the right direction. My goal to publish in six months in time for my fiftieth birthday was a tight one, but they worked alongside me to ensure that I not only met the goal but also produced a top-quality book! I am forever in their debt and look forward to working with them on future projects.
Did any particular moment SPARK your interest in writing a book?
I’ve always been an avid reader. I believe in the power of words and love the ability to transfer knowledge, insights, and experiences from one person to the world through books. I’d been speaking about this topic on several occasions and had been repeatedly told that I should write a book to share my insights with a wider audience. When I started thinking about what type of impact and legacy I wanted to leave on the world, I thought a book would be the perfect avenue.
What surprises did you encounter on the road to writing and publishing the book?
I didn’t realize how much of myself I would have to put into the process and the words. This book was designed to be a “professional” one in my mind, so I didn’t consider how much of my personal journey and experiences would end up being integrated into the work. It was a cathartic experience for me because I was able to revisit several milestones in my life and realize how far I’d truly come.
How did SPARK Publications help in championing and publishing your book?
The team at SPARK Publications were amazing! They provided encouragement when I needed it, guidance on how to adjust when warranted, and their professionalism in outlining the process. Creating a schedule and helping me to stick with it was SO needed. I’m a firm believer that this book would not have turned out as well as it did without having the SPARKlers on my team.
Now that your book is published, are there any goals or experiences you’re looking forward to?
I’m already looking at publishing a companion guide to accompany the book and have ideas in mind for the next one. This year, specifically, I’d like to embark on a virtual book tour and have the book become one of the go-to resources for companies and organizations seeking to embark on the journey of transformation. I’ve also set my sights on gracing the TEDx stage to share the message in this book or the next. Dream big, right?
What advice do you have for other authorpreneurs and aspiring writers?
The number one advice I would like to share is to be kind to yourself. Writing is a deeply personal journey, and you’re going to doubt yourself and your abilities many times during this process. It’s important to allow yourself grace and to trust your voice as an author. Having great people on your team who know and understand you and your vision is also important. They’ll keep you focused and going in the right direction when you feel overwhelmed and lost. It’s not a race. The longest journey begins with the first step. Just keep moving.
Tell us about your future plans — what’s next for you?
I’m rebranding my Mindset 2 Mastery podcast and will be launching my KARS Learning Center online. I’m also embarking on a virtual book tour and will be expanding my speaking and corporate learning session offerings. I’ve been pleasantly surprised at the feedback from the initial release of the book and look forward to sharing more of my journey and insights with others along the way.
If you could broadcast two sentences to the entire world, what would they be?
Change is a process that begins with an event. Love yourself enough to trust the process.
Are you ready to publish your book? Learn more here.