Interview With Author Alistair McLeod
Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I am Alistair McLeod, a passionate author with a diverse range of books spanning various genres. With a love for self-help, mindfulness, and real estate, I have written extensively to empower and guide readers in their personal and professional lives.
My collection includes:
1. “A Dream Home in Italy: Your Essential Guide to Buying a House in La Bella Italia”
2. “Navigating the UK Real Estate: Your Essential Guide to Buying a Home in Britain”
3. “Sunset in Spain: The Comprehensive Path to Your Dream Spanish Home”
4. “The French Homebuyer’s Guide: A Step-by-Step Path to Your Dream House in France”
5. “The Nordic Homestead: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying a House in Sweden”
6. “The Ultimate Guide to Buying a House in Croatia: Navigating Property Ownership in the Adriatic Paradise”
7. “Der ultimative Leitfaden für den Hauskauf in Kroatien: Eigentum an der Adriaküste – ein Leitfaden zur Navigation durch das Paradies”
8. “La Guida Definitiva per Acquistare una Casa in Croazia: Come Affrontare l’Acquisto di Proprietà Immobiliari nel Paradiso Adriatico”
9. “Turkish Real Estate Treasure: Your Ultimate Guide to Buying Property in the Land of Two Continents”
10. “From Fear to Freedom: A Step-by-Step Guide to Overcoming Social Anxiety and Shyness”
11. “Peace in the Chaos: Mindfulness for the Overwhelmed & Overworked”
These books reflect my passion for providing practical guidance and insightful perspectives on various aspects of life. Whether it’s finding your dream home or navigating personal challenges, my goal is to empower and inspire readers on their journey of growth and fulfillment.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book, “Peace in the Chaos: Mindfulness for the Overwhelmed & Overworked,” was inspired by the growing need for balance and tranquility in our fast-paced modern lives. Seeing the increasing levels of stress, anxiety, and burnout, I felt compelled to share practical mindfulness techniques and strategies to help individuals find inner peace amidst the chaos.
Through extensive research and personal experiences, I delved into the power of mindfulness as a tool for self-care, stress reduction, and overall well-being. I wanted to provide a comprehensive guide that offers practical exercises, insights, and wisdom to help individuals navigate the challenges of their daily lives.
“Peace in the Chaos” aims to empower readers with the knowledge and practices to cultivate a mindful approach to life, enabling them to find serenity, enhance productivity, and foster a deeper connection with themselves and others. It is my sincere hope that this book serves as a source of guidance and inspiration for those seeking calm and balance in the midst of a hectic world.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Yes, I do have a few unusual writing habits that have become part of my creative process. Firstly, I find that taking long walks in nature sparks my creativity and helps me generate new ideas. I often carry a small notebook to jot down thoughts and inspirations that arise during these walks. Additionally, I have a unique ritual of starting each writing session by lighting a scented candle and playing soft instrumental music in the background. This combination creates a soothing ambiance that helps me focus and immerse myself in the writing process. These habits may be unconventional, but they have proven to be effective in enhancing my writing experience.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
As an avid reader and author, I have been fortunate to come across numerous authors and books that have profoundly influenced my writing and perspective on life. Some notable authors who have left a lasting impact on me include:
1. Eckhart Tolle: His book “The Power of Now” awakened my understanding of living in the present moment and embracing mindfulness.
2. Brené Brown: Through her works like “The Gifts of Imperfection” and “Daring Greatly,” Brown’s insights on vulnerability, courage, and wholehearted living have deeply resonated with me.
3. Haruki Murakami: Murakami’s surreal storytelling and ability to blend reality with fantasy, as seen in novels like “Norwegian Wood” and “Kafka on the Shore,” have inspired my own creative exploration.
4. Elizabeth Gilbert: Gilbert’s memoir “Eat, Pray, Love” taught me the importance of self-discovery, travel, and embracing one’s passions without fear of judgment.
5. Thich Nhat Hanh: The teachings of this renowned Buddhist monk, particularly in books like “The Miracle of Mindfulness” and “Peace Is Every Step,” have guided me towards a greater sense of inner peace and compassion.
These authors, along with countless others, have shaped my writing style, expanded my horizons, and deepened my understanding of human experiences. Their wisdom and storytelling have influenced my own work, inspiring me to craft meaningful narratives and provide valuable insights to readers.
What are you working on now?
Currently, I am diligently working on my upcoming project, a new self-help guide that I am excited to bring to life. While I must keep the details under wraps for now, I can offer a small hint: the essence of this guide can be captured in a single word—”breathe.” Stay tuned for more updates as I continue to pour my heart and soul into creating a resource that I hope will inspire and empower readers on their personal growth journeys.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
When it comes to promoting my books, one of the methods and websites that has been highly effective for me is Awesome Gang (https://awesomegang.com). This platform offers a fantastic opportunity to reach a wide audience of book lovers and enthusiasts.
By leveraging the targeted audience of Awesome Gang, I have been able to showcase my books to readers who are specifically interested in my genre or niche. Their website features book promotions, author interviews, and book listings, allowing me to connect with potential readers and generate visibility for my works.
Additionally, Awesome Gang provides various promotional options, including featured book listings and discounted book promotions, which have proven to be successful in increasing book sales and attracting new readers.
By utilizing the reach and resources provided by Awesome Gang, I have experienced a boost in book exposure and engagement, ultimately helping me connect with a broader audience and expand my reader base.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
Absolutely! My advice for new authors is simple yet powerful: Believe in yourself and your unique voice. Embrace the journey of writing, stay committed to honing your craft, and never underestimate the impact your words can have. Trust in your story, persevere through challenges, and let your passion guide you to create something truly extraordinary. Remember, the world is waiting for your voice to be heard, so write fearlessly and share your story with the world.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
The best advice I have ever heard is to embrace the journey, not just the destination. Life is a series of moments, and it’s in those moments where we find growth, joy, and meaning. So, live fully, cherish the present, and let the beauty of the journey unfold before you.
What are you reading now?
I am currently immersed in the captivating pages of “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho. Its timeless wisdom and enchanting storytelling remind me to listen to the whispers of my heart and embrace the transformative power of following my dreams.
What’s next for you as a writer?
As a writer, my journey is a constant evolution fueled by creativity and the desire to inspire. With each new chapter, I aim to delve deeper into unexplored territories, crafting captivating stories that resonate with readers. The future holds endless possibilities, and I am excited to embark on new adventures, connect with diverse audiences, and continue sharing the transformative power of words. The best is yet to come, and I can’t wait to see where the pen takes me next.
If you were going to be stranded on a desert island and allowed to take 3 or 4 books with you what books would you bring?
If I were to be stranded on a desert island, I would choose to bring three or four books that would not only entertain me but also inspire and nourish my mind. The books I would select would be a classic novel like “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen, a practical survival guide like “The SAS Survival Handbook” by John ‘Lofty’ Wiseman, a collection of poetry such as “The Essential Rumi” translated by Coleman Barks, and a thought-provoking non-fiction book like “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. Frankl. These books would provide me with a mix of escapism, knowledge, introspection, and artistic beauty, helping me find solace and growth even in the solitude of the desert island.
Author Websites and Profiles
Alistair McLeod Amazon Profile
Alistair McLeod’s Social Media Links