Author Interview – Carol Hickson – The Resilience Template

Written by JJ Barnes

www.jjbarnes.co.uk

Delighted to share my interview with Carol Hickson, author of The Resilience Template. She talks about why she was motivated to write a book to help others and her experiences with writing it, and her advice for others hoping to write a book.

Tell me a bit about who you are.

I am Carol Hickson, a multi-disciplined therapist trained in 8 modalities including Clinical Hypnotherapy, Mindfulness, Neuro Linguistic Programming, and the EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique).

I’m a mum of three adult children.  My partner is Rich, and we have two Bordoodles, brother and sister Cozumel (age 2) and Beeston (aged 8 months).

I have three main drivers behind what I do:

1. Childhood Trauma and the impact it can have on the adult who experiences it.
2. Chronic backpain – I was a disabled blue badge holder – I have 5 prolapsed discs in my lumbar region and neck and a diagnosis of Dystonia (I have been told that I am paralysing down my left-hand side).
3. Experiencing 4 years of Insomnia.

When did you first WANT to write a book?

The idea probably came to mind three years ago when I realized that the cost of therapy is prohibitive for a lot of clients.  I wanted a way to share what I know in a way that was simple, inexpensive and science-based.

The book developed from an 8-week community mindset class that I created and ran in January 2020.  A group of interested individuals who were ready to commit an hour and a half a week in class and practice simple techniques daily came together and the results were encouraging.  We had some significant lifestyle changes. 

Through lockdown I had messages from the participants thanking me and saying that they couldn’t have got through the isolation without the techniques.  That was when I decided that I wanted my lockdown experience to be an opportunity for my own growth and I began to adapt the 8-week course and create the book.

When did you take a step to start writing?

I already had some structure and ‘lesson plans’ for the classes.  I used these as the basis for the book.  I began writing with the intention of creating a book in July/August 2021.

How long did it take you to complete your first book from the first idea to release?

When people ask me a similar question my reply is as follows: ‘My book was 7 months in the writing, three years in the (class) planning and a lifetime in the living.’

How long did it take you to complete your latest book from the first idea to release?

I am 6,000 words into the workbook that accompanies The Resilience template.  I am also, in the planning stage for a book on Menopause and a fourth on Sleep.

Focusing on your latest release. What made you want to write The Resilience Template?

A desire to share what I know and support other people.

What were your biggest challenges with writing The Resilience Template?

Finding the time.  Facing my own internal dialogue of ‘not good enough’, learning how to accept constructive feedback.

What was your research process for The Resilience Template?

My extensive training in eight mental health modalities.  Research and reading dozens of books explaining mind and mindset.

How did you plan the structure of The Resilience Template?

It begins with what I call the four pillars of resilience: Flexibility, Pragmatism, Planning and Action.  We then break these down into the 7 PARTNER steps which I created to work with clients.  These are: Preparation, Acceptance, Reconnection, Talk (Self), Now, Embed and Reflection.

Did you get support with editing, and how much editing did The Resilience Template need?

Yes, a little.  My editor is a therapist too, she’s based in Canada and more than anything she was a great sounding board although I’d finished the book by the time I contacted her.

What is the first piece of writing advice you would give to anyone inspired to write a book?

Do it.  Just write down whatever comes to mind.  Try and find a set time when you will work.  Accept constructive criticism.  Don’t write to make money, write to share your voice.

Can you give me a hint about any further books you’re planning to write?

I am 6,000 words into the workbook that accompanies The Resilience template.  I am also, in the planning stage for a book on Menopause and a fourth on Sleep.

And, finally, are your proud of your accomplishment? Was it worth the effort?

I am proud of the commitment that I have shown to myself.  It is important to me that I play a very small part in improving mental health.  An old version of me would never have had the confidence to publish it!

Pop all your book, website and social media links here so the readers can find you:

www.carolhickson.co.uk

Linkedin – https://www.linkedin.com/in/carol-hickson-mcma-099284168/

FaceBook – https://www.facebook.com/carolhickson.co.uk

The Resilience Template – https://www.amazon.co.uk/Resilience-Template-Improve-Mental-Health/dp/1838408800/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=carol+hickson&qid=1622817356&sr=8-1