Author Interview – Allen Klein
I interview wellness authors to find out what makes them tick and why they write the books they do. I met Allen Klein when he and I appeared on a Mango Publishing panel together. Because Allen uses humor so effectively to lighten any situation and help us cope, I wanted you to meet him too.
The AWE Factor, a new groundbreaking book by best-selling author Allen Klein, is the perfect read for the new year. With the pandemic preventing many people from fully enjoying life, this book demonstrates why awe is the new happiness and how to get more of it every day. As the subtitle says, a little bit of wonder can make a big difference in your life.
NS: What made you want to write this book?
AK: At the beginning of last year, I looked back at my life and realized how many magical moments have occurred during my time on earth…from finding the perfect publisher, to acquiring a no-cost yearly New York City vacation apartment, and even getting to march in Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
NS: And what message do you hope readers take away?
AK: In The AWE Factor, I want readers to realize that they don’t have to go to the Grand Canyon or Niagara Falls to find awe and wonder. It is all around us. All we need to do to find it is put down our cell-phones, get away from our computers, and start recognizing it. Moreover, I want readers to know that, according to recent research, awe-inspiring moments can help us be healthier and happier.
NS: Because writing (and life) can be stressful. How do you take care of yourself?
AK: My dog helps me keep well. No matter the weather, rain or shine, I need to take her for walks. It gets me away from my computer, refreshes my spirit, and often my stuck writing places clear up as new ideas seem to flow more easily on the walk. In fact, I dedicated one of my books to my dog because of all the wonderful ideas happened during our walk time.
NS: Do you have a motto or slogan you find helpful? If so, how did you arrive at that?
AK: My favorite is, “The world treats as royalty wherever I go.” I’m not sure exactly where or when I first started using it but that mindset uplifts me no matter what the situation and helps me have a positive attitude.
NS: What’s the worst self-care advice you’ve ever heard?
AK: This is funny…I am almost totally bald. The Asian owner of a store next to a business I once had gave me this remedy for baldness. “Get some very pure, high-alcohol-percentage- vodka. Then catch a very young mouse and put it in the vodka. After a few months rub the solution on your bald head every day.
I can’t say whether or not it works. I never tried it.
NS: What is one thing about coping you wish you’d learned earlier?
AK: Everything turns out for the best. Not the way I may have wanted but for my own personal best.
NS: Has your life turned out differently than you expected? If so, how?
AK: Yes, yes, yes. I never thought my wife would die at the age of 34. I never thought that event would turn into a writing and speaking career. And I never thought I could get up and speak in front of as many as 1,500 people. But her death and my passion to share her message, that humor can be therapeutic and help us heal anything, created a life I never imagined.
NS: And would you change anything about your journey?
AK: Some little things, perhaps. But nothing major.
NS: What are you currently reading for inspiration?
AK: Not much. Too busy publicizing The AWE Factor.
NS: Is there a wellness or inspirational book you couldn’t finish? Why?
AK: No.
NS: What wellness book couldn’t you put down?
AK: Most of Wayne Dyer’s or Stephen Levine’s books.
NS: What’s next for you writing wise?
AK: Don’t know. After having over 30 books published, this might be the last.
AND FINALLY:
NS: Mermaids or Goddesses? (Superheroes or Gods?)
AK: Mermaids.
NS: Toast or bagels?
AK: A good bagel (I’m Jewish)
NS: Ocean, mountains, or forest?
AK: Ocean
NS: Leggings, jeans, slacks, or sweatpants?
AK: Slacks. (I like dressing up)
NS: Dogs, cats, fish, guinea pigs, or horses?
AK: Dogs
Allen Klein bio:
Allen Klein is an award-winning author and speaker who shows audience’s worldwide how to use humor and positivity to deal with life’s not-so-funny stuff. He is a recipient of a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Association for Applied Therapeutic Humor as well as a Toastmaster’s Communication and Leadership Award. In addition, he is also a TEDx presenter on intention, and the author of over 30 books including The Healing Power of Humor, You Can’t Ruin My Day, and Embracing Life After Loss. His latest book is, The Awe Factor, How a Little Bit of Wonder Can Make a Big Difference in Your Life.
Allen Klein, MA, CSP – www.allenklein.com
The AWE Factor: https://tinyurl.com/yxd8lrle
TEDx talk: http://tinyurl.com/z4hfsx5
Facebook: facebook.com/allen.klein
Twitter: @allenklein
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/allenklein/
Instagram: allenklein22
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