I’m excited to welcome Bible teacher, professor, psychologist, and author Dr. Rosemarie Downer. She’s an expert in several fields and enjoys sharing knowledge with others. Today we will learn about her new book, Leaders Are Like Giraffes.
Bio: Dr. Rosemarie Downer writes nonfiction Christian books to challenge and inspire the body of Christ. Thus far, she has written and published eight nonfiction Christian books. She teaches and preaches the Word of God at conferences, retreats, and in any other setting where the need for such services arise. Additionally, she has coached church leaders and has done countless seminars and retreats for church and business leaders. Dr. Downer earned her doctorate degree in developmental psychology at the University of Maryland College Park in 1997. She served at The U.S. Department of Agriculture as a social science researcher for 20 years and as an adjunct professor at Bowie State University for 24 years. She is now retired from both positions and is currently doing what she dreamed of doing for years, and that is to write nonfiction books to edify the body of Christ.
Please tell us about your current release.
I have 8 books released and will be releasing the nineth book in April 2024 titled Leaders Are Like Giraffes. Here is a brief description:
Leaders Are Like Giraffes is a compelling and insightful exploration of leadership through a unique lens. In this captivating book, Dr. Downer masterfully draws parallels between the graceful and towering giraffe and the qualities that define exceptional leaders. With a blend of wit, wisdom, and real-world examples, the author takes readers on a journey to discover the heights of effective leadership.
Through vivid storytelling and keen observations, Dr. Downer skillfully unravels the long neck of the giraffe as a metaphor for vision and foresight. Readers will gain valuable insights into how great leaders rise above challenges, seeing opportunities from a higher vantage point and guiding their teams toward success. The book encourages a shift in perspective, urging leaders to embrace their uniqueness and stand tall, just like the giraffe in the savannah.
Leaders Are Like Giraffes goes beyond conventional leadership literature, offering a fresh and imaginative approach to understanding and developing leadership skills. With each chapter, readers will find themselves immersed in a world where leadership is not just a role but a majestic journey of self-discovery and impact.
Whether you are an aspiring leader or a seasoned executive, this book will inspire you to reach new heights in your leadership journey. Dr. Downer has crafted a masterpiece that not only entertains but also educates, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the extraordinary qualities that make leaders like giraffes truly stand out in the wilds of the corporate landscape. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to elevate their leadership skills and leave a lasting legacy in their professional journey.
What inspired you to write this book?
I’ve done a lot of leadership trainings and several years ago I did a session titled “Leaders Are Like Giraffes.” I knew then that it was a book in the making because there was so much information that I did have time to cover in the training. This book has some very intriguing analogies between the giraffe and leaders.
Excerpt:
Giraffes exhibit a unique feeding behavior by consuming food that is beyond the reach of other animals. Similarly, effective leaders should seek knowledge and insights from sources that are inaccessible to their followers. Leaders should have a dedicated menu exclusively designed for them, containing information that is meant for their initial consumption only. This information should then be prioritized and shared with the followers by the leader after they have thoroughly understood it.
The learning menu and sources of information as well as a constant state of learning are the features that set great leaders apart. Great leaders seek to improve themselves first, and by prioritizing self-improvement, they are equipped to enhance the lives of others.
What’s next for your book or future plans you’d like to share?
My plan is to work hard to get it into the hands of readers in the Christian and business community.
What got you interested in writing things for others to read?
I’ve always loved writing and I truly believe writing is one way to put in permanent record what the Lord gives me for His people.
What’s one challenge you had to overcome to write?
Writing comes easy for me. I love writing. My biggest challenge is marketing.
Do you write full-time? If not, what do you do other than write and how do you find time to write?
I am retired but I do a ton of other things. So, I wouldn’t say I write full-time. I am immersed in ministry in my church, so I have a lot of responsibilities there. In addition, I lead a small women’s group outside of my church. Plus, I counsel a few people and I take theology classes because I’m always teaching so I too need to be taught.
My usual day is do my devotion first, workout, shower, eat, and get on the computer. What I do depends on what’s on my TO DO list. If I’m writing a book, I have set days that I write and dates by which I am to complete each chapter.
As a child, did you think you’d be writer? Or what did you want to be when you grew up?
I first wanted to be a pediatrician. I did an internship as a teenager on a pediatric ward, and I quickly found out that I’m far too sympathetic to children when they’re sick. I still wanted to help children so, I became a child psychologist. I didn’t see myself as an author until during my college years.
Anything additional you want to share with the readers?
Get the book, you won’t regret it!
What’s something fun you like to do outside of writing?
Traveling and going out to eat.
How can readers connect with you?
Website: https://www.booksbyrosemarie.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/booksbyrosemarie
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/books_by_rosemarie