Author Interview: Kim Box
Book Title: Woven Leadership
Website URL: www.kimboxinspires.com
Social Media Links:
twitter: @kimboxinspires
FB: kim.box
LinkedIN: kimboxinspires
What is your book about?
It is about the power of diversity in any organization achieving its goals. I outline the competitive advantage of having a diverse organization whether it is corporate, non-profit, government, faith-based, or any coming together of people. It is also about acknowledging your own unique gifts and experience in order to be an authentic leader.
What inspired you to write your book?
I spent 29 years in the IT Industry and managed large scale global operations for the past several years. Through this experience I had the opportunity to build teams from different cultures, life experiences, and many other types of diversity. I saw first-hand the power of a diverse team versus a team of people that are all alike. I have a passion for diversity and to bring the conversation forward to inspire as many people as possible that diversity is not just the right thing to do; it is a powerful competitive force for any organization.
Can you describe a typical day in your life?
Most days I start out with an early morning boot camp – core, cardio & strength training in nearby park and on the days when I am not at an early morning boot camp I have another workout planned whether it’s cycling, swimming or running for my triathlon training. From there my day is a rhythm of work in my home office writing, working on my Kim Box Inspires business and my non-profit organization. I usually have at least one meeting with someone I am partnering with on my various projects. I also serve on 3 Board of Directors so I often have a board meeting or committee meeting with that responsibility. And I throw in the occasional lunch with a friend or my husband!
What do you most enjoy about what you do?
Everything I do has a purpose and I am passionate about everything I do. I left a long and successful career at HP to pursue a new path with one main goal which was to be in service with everything I am involved in. It has been an incredible shift to wake up every day and know that all of my dealings will be for a greater good.
Are there any people and/or books that have inspired you along your journey?
Many, many people and a few books! On the people side my two biggest fans are Mother Theresa and Nelson Mandela. Both for similar reasons. They lived a life of service and purpose. They lived and breathed their values – consistently. There have been many others in my career that have inspired me and it has always been around how they lead with courage and compassion during difficult times. Some books that have inspired me; Competing for the Future by Hamel & Prahalad for its wisdom in creating the future, not trying to follow or copy from others and The Soul of Money by Lynn Twist for her eloquent way of explaining that it’s not in acquiring a mass amount of wealth that is important, but what you do with that wealth once you’ve acquired it.
Can you share some of your best advice for our readers?
Be open to the true power of diversity – don’t just do this to be a good citizen, look beneath the facade at the richness that exists in the difference that each unique individual brings to the table. And, equally, embrace your own unique gifts that you can bring to any organization or group you are a part of and realize that you have your own unique views and experience that will enhance the overall outcome.
What’s next for you?
This year I am focusing on inspiring others through my speaking engagements, book and social media. I am also starting on my next book which will focus on how to create the life you chose with the balance that works for you. I am also working on my non-profit initiative; prevention and early intervention of teenage alcohol and drug addiction. And Olympic distance triathlons!
How did Authority Publishing help you with your author journey?
Authority Publishing has published my book, built my website, created my marketing materials and created a marketing plan. In addition, Stephanie and her team have been coaches and mentors to me through this entire process. There is a lot to do and when this is not what you do for a living, it can be daunting. Authority Publishing made this process manageable and the outcome has been top notch!
