Authors Interview: How The Navy Saved Me.

Young Keshawn’s parents were absent and almost non-existent, but he never let that diminish his dreams, or his tenacity to succeed. Bound by My Choices is an illustrated revelation of his personal stories of trials and tribulations, failed parenting, and ultimate success and redemption. It is filled with experiences and lessons that molded a young adolescent boy to become a Senior Chief in the United States Navy, and graduate college with two degrees. This book will prove that no matter what situation you are born into, you can change the course of your life. It will motivate you to seize the opportunity and not make excuses for the position you were born into. This book will appeal to anyone who aspires to overcome adversity.

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Q: What’s your advice for breaking out of the mold?

In order to break out of the mold, a person cannot get complacent with average performance. Continue to raise the bar on both your personal and professional expectations. Develop a plan of action and milestones and cross them off as you complete them.

Q: What books have had the most impact on you and your development?

I read a lot of non-fiction books, there are many that have impacted my development and overall awareness in life. Just to name a few; It Worked For Me by Colin Powell, The Energy Bus by Jon Gordon, The Golden Thirteen by Paul Stillwell, Its Your Ship by Captain Michael Abrashoff, Make Your Bed by Admiral William McRaven, Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama.

Q: Why is reading important for our Military and/or the Nation?

I think reading is very important to our Military and our Nation because it increases our personal development and level of knowledge. The United States contains a very diverse population. There is added value for all to learn the differences in customs and traditions of other states and countries. Books often display different aspects of life, business, and elements of survival. Books can also be entertaining and provide an outlet for people experiencing joy and pain. There is saying that goes: “you can learn a lot from another person’s struggle.”

Q: Do you have any recommendations for aspiring military authors?

I know a few aspiring military authors that have great stories to share. The main thing holding them back is procrastination. I recommend setting a few hours aside each day or week to focus on your writing. There are many options available to start your manuscript. If you don’t want to write it or type-it, many computers have dictation programs where you can tell your story and the computer will type it. Keep in mind the editing process will require strict attention to detail.

Q: What is Next for you and your writing projects?

I am in the process of completing my manuscript for the sequel to Bound By My Choices. The sequel will recount my military service, my personal achievements, and struggles throughout my career. I plan on broadening my horizons to create a publishing company to assist new authors in all genres.   

Q: Where do you recommend people buy your book?

I recommend people buy my book from my Author website in order to receive an autographed copy.

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Keshawn Antonio Spence is a Senior Chief in the United States Navy and a graduate of the Senior Enlisted Academy. He attended Saint Leo University and graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) Degree with a concentration in Human Resources Administration. After growing up without a stable household and absent parents, he was able to embark on a successful Navy career and rise to the rank of Senior Chief while helping enlisted Sailors and Officers succeed in mission accomplishment and achieving their personal and professional goals. He and his wife have 3 children.

Keshawn can be reached Via Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter