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- From a disturbed childhood, transient early life and chequered career to real achievement
- From being signed into the army at 15 to architectural practice
- From an unemployed single parent on a job creation scheme to award winning charity Director
- From mental health issues to contentment
- From divorce to a second, very happy, marriage
Mike has had an interesting life during which, following the death of his mother when he was 5, he has been fostered, signed into the army, married, divorced, an assistant architect, single parent, student, community activist, barman, cleaner, pizza chef and unemployed before joining the voluntary sector on a job creation scheme. There he rescued charities from closure and made them successful, for which he received national commendations. 16 years ago he set up his own business.
Along the way, he has worked in all sectors of the economy from shop floor to senior management level and been sacked and unemployed. He has run the London Marathon twice and renovated five properties as well as having bouts of depression and a breakdown. Following therapy, he is now happily married and embarked on his 6th career alongside a wife who has embarked on her 4th. He also has a young daughter and two grandchildren at university.
This life has made Mike different, something he has described in his other books. Now, at an age when most of his peers have opted for cardigan and slippers, he brings the benefit of his experiences to others so that they, too, can “Be the change they dream about”.
Truly, these are the Lessons from a Chequered Life.
“How delightful to read the musings and insights of a man who has travelled a varied path. Sometimes gentle, sometimes strong but always based on real life experiences. This book is a window into Mike’s past and is full of lessons for all generations. A thoroughly enjoyable read.”
Dr Lynda Shaw