Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
Thank you for this interview.
My name is Ukpeme Akpan Okon. I am a lawyer, leader, arbitrator, adjudicator, mediator, speaker, trainer, peace life coach, and Ambassador for Peace. I am the Founder of Guild of Adjudicators in Nigeria (GAIN).
I was born in Nigeria and the fourth out of five children of my dear parents. I believe that the complexities of the world, and challenges encountered by individuals can be surmounted.
I have been writing from my childhood days. I recall writing instructional notes as a child ( I still have the notes). The Values String, is my first book. I have written many articles and made presentations. I have served as Rapporteur at events, and was a panelist at a High Level event of the United Nations General Assembly.
I am an awardee and desirous of leaving a legacy of peace, time consciousness, organizational excellence, team work and meritorious leadership. These are qualities I exhibited from ten years of age. I have held leadership positions since my teenage years, until now.
After successfully acting as a mediator in a protracted difficult situation, I was referred to as “Peace Maker.” This, and other related circumstances led to my determination to help people lead peaceful, transformational, fulfilled lives.
I am a Rotarian, and take pleasure in peacebuilding, good music, healthy lifestyle, culinary art, life coaching, nature, dancing, traveling and volunteering. I am married, with children and live in the United States of America.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is The Values String, a book on Transitional Life, Compelling Fulfillment, and Profound Peace.
Self-inspiration, my desire to make the world a peaceful place, and my interactions with people inspired the writing of The Values String. My experiences as a lawyer, leader, mediator, speaker, Ambassador for Peace, alternative dispute resolution practitioner, mentor, among others provided my writing ideas.
I hope to help readers, listeners, and people I interact with achieve compelling fulfillment, and profound peace.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
Interesting question. Writing habits differ. A usual writing habit for a writer may be unusual for another writer. I don’t have unusual writing habits but a writing style unique to me.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
I have vivid memories of good books I have read. I hold authors in high regard. The intellectual efforts they apply in writing should not be belittled. It is not that simple to write (even a one—page letter).
Considering the books I have read, I recognised the numerous writing skills of the authors and enjoyed the diversity of talents.
In terms of my writing style, I am not influenced by anyone. I advocate originality in writing.
What are you working on now?
I am currently working on a newspaper article, and a paper presentation.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I notice there are numerous websites offering book promotion services. I am exploring these opportunities. I commend Awesome Gang for providing helpful information to authors seeking promotion strategies.
My best method for promoting my book is self-promotion. Telling people about my book has created more awareness.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
This is a good question.
My advice for new authors, which can apply to all authors:
– Be original. Be confident. Don’t compare yourself with others.
– Authors should not be complacent about promoting their books.
– Writers should not expect exponential book sales. It is possible but not guaranteed.
– They should identify with other authors and communities of writers.
– Authors are encouraged to research about individuals, websites, and organizations that promote authors, and get involved.
– Leverage their network.
-Volunteer to enrich the lives of people, through their message by giving free speeches, and services.
– Self—promote their books.
-They should not be fearful of bad or negative book reviews.
– Authors should be organized, and keep account of their income and expenditures.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
I have heard a lot of good advice. I can’t determine which is the best. Hopefully, there will be an answer.
What are you reading now?
I am reading Resisting Happiness by Matthew Kelly at the moment.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Spreading the message of The Values String as a contributing writer, giving motivational speeches, offering courses, and engaging in charitable causes.
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?
These are the 4 books I will take to the desert island:
1. The Holy Bible
2. The Values String
3. The Values String (to give a stranded person I may encounter on the desert island)
4. The Values String (to give a stranded person I may encounter on the desert island)
Author Websites and Profiles
Ukpeme Okon Website
Ukpeme Okon Amazon Profile
Ukpeme Okon Author Profile on Smashwords
Ukpeme Okon’s Social Media Links
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