Allan Lawrence: I believe Kenyans are good readers

Allan Lawrence was born and raised in Turkana County.

Photo credit: Nation Media Group

What you need to know:

  • Every leader should, therefore, rise up and encourage good reading habits.
  • Do not write to make money. Instead, write and publish to inspire generations and make a positive impact on society.

Allan Lawrence was born and raised in Turkana County. He is an inspirational speaker, life coach and minister of the Gospel. He is the President and Founder of a Mentorship program called The Inactive Experience whose goal is to encourage, equip and empower lives. He has authored 4 motivational books: Before You Think of Dating, Wisdom Nuggets, Take a Bold Step, Move and Success Masterstrokes. He is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Procurement and Supply Chain Management at the Cooperative University of Kenya.

                                                                                                         

What inspired you to consider writing motivational books?

I always seek to be the energy that I want to get from the outside. I am intentional about being my own motivation.

What is your schedule like when you are writing?

Proper planning and getting priorities right helps me strike a balance. I always plan and see the ending of a book even before I start writing. This helps me break the time frame I have set for writing. Once I have done proper research on the subject matter, it becomes easier for me to write. I enjoy writing at night. I have an office at my place that I call “Manifestation Centre”. When I am there, just know something’s cooking.

Out of the four books that you have published so far, which one was the most taxing to write?

I would honestly say Before You Think of Dating was the most taxing. Reason being, I had the fear, what would people say since I am not even married… Interestingly, I always get that question.

What inspired to write the book 'Before You Think of Dating'?

This was after I realised that many young people are frustrated in relationships. It pays to date yourself first before you commit to dating another person. I believe dating is for people who have a great sense of purpose. The book clarifies that sex is not dating and dating is not sex. It generally guides people to date on the right foundation to evade unrealistic expectations that lead to frustrations.

What are the three most memorable motivational books you have ever read so far, and what makes them so?

Masks-Off by Dr Israel Robert Burale, Be Inspired Before You Expire by Pepe Minambo and Soar! Build Your Vision from the Ground Up by TD Jakes. These books made me unmask my potential and live a fulfilling life just like the Late Dr Myles Munroe said, ‘we should live fully and die empty!’

Which are your two most treasured books and why? Would you lend them out?

Masks-Off and Soar! Build Your Vision from the Ground Up are close to my heart so lending them out would be difficult. Whenever I feel down, they lift my spirits.

If you had an opportunity to meet three authors, dead or alive, who would they be and why?

I am glad to have met Dr Robert Burale and Pepe Minambo. I can’t thank them enough for the positive impact on my life as my mentors. I am yet to meet Bishop TD Jakes although I have interacted with many of his works and sermons. 

What are your thoughts on the reading culture of Kenyans in the face of popular culture?

I believe Kenyans are good readers. I also believe everything rises and falls on leadership. Every leader should, therefore, rise up and encourage good reading habits. That way, many people will follow suit.

What was your last read and how was it?

I recently read Power of Your Gift by Joseph K Mburu. I like how the author explains that your gift can open doors that your pedigree and financial elasticity cannot. He inspired me to have a different perspective on the need to develop my gift so as to inspire others to maximise their potential.

What are you working on during this Covid-19 pandemic?

This has been a self-introspection period. It has made me more productive. I am currently working on a number of manuscripts. One of them addresses the current issue of rising number of teenage pregnancies.

Does your family support your writing endeavours?

I will be honest with you. At first, there was little support from family members but I persisted till it made sense to them. That experience made me learn that we should be our own cheerleaders before others do. I am glad that they now encourage me and keep me on my toes regarding writing.

What one thing would you advise aspiring authors to do or not do?

Do not write to make money. Instead, write and publish to inspire generations and make a positive impact on society.