Tell us about yourself and how many books you have written.
I’m Nathan Clarke, an entrepreneur fueled by a passion for innovation and a belief in the transformative power of technology. Over the past decade, I’ve immersed myself in the domains of deep tech and branding with a clear mission: to empower startups and other businesses to prosper in a competitive market.
As the founder of iCreateWords, I’m proud to lead a movement that democratizes access to effective branding and marketing strategies. Our platform is designed to help entrepreneurs articulate their authentic stories and connect genuinely with their target audiences. We’re not just providing cutting-edge marketing tools rooted in deep tech, we’re also fostering a community where creativity and authenticity can flourish.
In 2024, I achieved a significant milestone with my first book, “Pragmatic Time Management: A Productivity Multiplier”, which became a bestseller on Amazon UK. This bestseller emerged from my desire to share practical insights that help individuals efficiently manage the complexities of their workloads. It’s all about reclaiming time, enhancing productivity, and ultimately maximizing the outputs, not just for oneself but for the teams and communities we engage with.
My journey has been further enriched by being recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in 2024 and LinkedIn Top Voice in AI 2023. These achievements reflect my commitment to sharing knowledge and driving meaningful conversations within our industry. Collaboration with organizations like the Royal Academy of Engineering and Techscaler has deepened my understanding and connection to the entrepreneurial ecosystem, allowing me to learn from others and give back to the community.
For me, entrepreneurship transcends mere business creation. It’s a chance to make a lasting impact. I aim to inspire those around me to embrace their unique narratives while harnessing creativity and technology in their pursuits. As I continue my writing journey and expand the vision for iCreateWords, I’m excited about the possibilities that lie ahead and the collective impact we can achieve together as communities.
What is the name of your latest book and what inspired it?
My latest book is titled “Pragmatic Time Management: A Productivity Multiplier,” and it’s a project that truly reflects my experiences and passion for helping others achieve their goals. The inspiration behind this book stemmed from my own journey as a technology leader and entrepreneur, where I learned the hard way how critical effective time management is in navigating the complexities of running a business or any project.
Over the years, I’ve encountered countless individuals struggling to balance their ambitions with the demands of their daily lives. I realized there was a common thread: many people were overwhelmed with their responsibilities, often feeling like there simply weren’t enough hours in the day. This sparked the idea to create a practical guide that offers actionable strategies – insights drawn directly from my experiences leading teams from large to small sizes in the fast-paced domain of deep tech and branding.
In writing this book, I aimed to provide relatable tools that empower readers to take control of their time and enhance their and their teams productivity. This book is about fostering a mindset that encourages focus, resilience, and creativity. My hope is that readers will walk away feeling inspired and equipped to tackle their challenges with renewed confidence in their problem-solving abilities.
Do you have any unusual writing habits?
I have developed quite a few writing habits that enhance my productivity and creativity, ultimately positioning me to be effective as an author and leader. One of my key practices is to establish a disciplined writing schedule, often dedicating early mornings to organizing my thoughts and plans before the day’s distractions can interrupt my focus. This uninterrupted time allows me to dive deeply into my writing process, ensuring I produce high-quality content consistently.
In addition to setting aside dedicated time, I use a structured approach to brainstorming. Before starting a draft, I outline my ideas and concepts, allowing me to create a coherent narrative that aligns with my overarching goals. This method not only streamlines my writing but also helps clarify my messaging, ensuring it seats well with my audience.
Collaboration is another essential element of my writing routine. I frequently engage with a network of trusted peers and mentors to gather feedback on my work and plans. This practice fosters a culture of improvement and innovation, enriching my writing while also reinforcing my commitment to producing valuable insights for readers. Their perspectives often reveal angles I might have overlooked, enhancing the overall quality of my work.
I also recognize the importance of adaptability and exploration in the creative process. Occasionally, I step outside of traditional writing methods to experiment with new formats or styles, whether through free writing or mind mapping. This exploratory approach keeps my work fresh and innovative, while providing me with a broader palette of ideas to draw from.
What authors, or books have influenced you?
Throughout my journey, I’ve been influenced by some remarkable authors in the fields of business strategy and organizational leadership, each contributing valuable insights that align closely with my mission at iCreateWords – using technology for good.
Jim Collins, particularly through his work “Good to Great,” reshaped my understanding of what it takes for organizations to truly excel. Collins emphasizes the importance of disciplined people, thought, and action, the very principles that I strive to embody as a leader. This not only fosters a high-performance culture within my team but also drives our commitment to innovation that can empower businesses in meaningful ways.
Michael Porter has also significantly impacted my perspective with his frameworks on competitive strategy and the value chain. His analyses allow me to approach market research and strategic positioning with precision. Understanding the intricacies of industry forces enables us at iCreateWords to position our technologies effectively, ensuring that we create sustainable advantages that benefit not just our clients, but also the communities they serve.
Clayton Christensen’s exploration of disruptive innovation resonates powerfully with our mission. His ideas remind me that businesses must anticipate and shape their futures proactively rather than merely reacting to change. This notion informs our approach at iCreateWords, where we strive to empower startups and SMEs to leverage cutting-edge branding strategies to create positive impact. We believe that aligning business goals with socially responsible practices can lead to a thriving ecosystem where innovation flourishes alongside community empowerment.
Patrick Lencioni’s focus on team dynamics and organizational health aligns seamlessly with my values. His insights into cultivating cohesive teams and fostering trust are foundational to my leadership style. At iCreateWords, we prioritize creating an inclusive environment that encourages collaboration and nurtures creativity, the elements that are essential for driving impactful solutions that benefit society at large.
What are you working on now?
At the moment, I’m fully engaged in the growth of iCreateWords, where our mission goes far beyond traditional branding frameworks. We are committed to redefining how technology can be leveraged as a catalyst for positive change in society. Our focus is on equipping startups and small to medium businesses with data-driven brand strategies and innovative digital marketing solutions, empowering them to compete effectively with larger players in the market. This creates an ecosystem where every entrepreneur has the opportunity to tell their authentic story and succeed amidst competition.
What truly fuels my passion is the way we are integrating social impact into our operations. We firmly believe that financial success should not merely be an end goal, and that it should provide the resources to reinvest in our communities. By embracing sustainability and focusing on responsible practices, we enhance our value proposition. We enable our clients not only to boost their visibility but also to ground their marketing efforts in actionable insights drawn from robust data analytics. This equips them to make strategic decisions that resonate more profoundly with their target audiences.
Our expertise lies in translating complex data into tailored marketing strategies that highlight the distinctive strengths of each brand. This agility allows our clients to adapt rapidly, tapping into opportunities within their industries while fostering genuine engagement with their audiences.
We’re actively cultivating partnerships with thought leaders to extend our reach and elevate our impact. Our iCreateWords journey is about more than just business growth – it’s about establishing a model within our industry that prioritizes authenticity and responsibility. We strive to embed social consciousness into our practices, setting an inspiring example for other companies to follow.
What is your best method or website when it comes to promoting your books?
I’ve discovered that the true power when it comes to effective book promotion lies in harnessing a robust business network. My journey to becoming a #1 bestseller with “Pragmatic Time Management: A Productivity Multiplier” in 2024 on Amazon UK was far from a solitary one. It was fueled by a community of passionate supporters and influential organizations like the Royal Academy of Engineering, Techscaler, and RBS networks. These affiliations provided me with the credibility and exposure essential for amplifying my message and connecting with the right audience.
Building authentic relationships within these communities has been essential to my success. Engaging in workshops, networking events, and vibrant discussions allowed me to share not just the insights from my book but also the underlying philosophy that drives my work. The collaborative spirit found within these networks transformed what could have been a significant promotional effort into a collective celebration of shared knowledge and growth. When individuals empower one another, it creates a ripple effect that extends well beyond our immediate circles.
I also strategically leveraged social media platforms to create excitement around my book. By inviting my network to participate in the journey, I was able to foster genuine engagement with readers who didn’t just consume content, they became enthusiastic advocates for the work. This organic momentum was instrumental in generating buzz and increasing visibility.
The support I received reaffirmed a critical lesson: by combining our efforts and tapping into the collective strength of professional networks, we can achieve extraordinary outcomes. As the founder of iCreateWords, this principle informs all aspects of my venture. I recognize that a strong ecosystem is paramount for innovation and success. I’m committed to building a platform that not only empowers entrepreneurs with data-driven strategies but also connects them with valuable resources and insights.
Do you have any advice for new authors?
For new authors starting on their writing journey, my first piece of advice is to stay true to yourself. Authenticity is magnetic, and readers are naturally drawn to narratives that reflect genuine experiences and emotions. Don’t hesitate to open up about your personal journey and to share the struggles you’ve faced and the wisdom you’ve gained along the way. This level of transparency fosters trust and makes your writing connect you deeply with your audience.
Equally important is collaboration with communities which share your mission, which often ignites creativity, opens doors to new possibilities and enhances your overall experience as an author.
Also, think about marketing as an integral part of your writing journey, not an afterthought. Begin sharing your work and engaging potential readers well before your book launches. Use social media platforms to offer glimpses into your writing process, gather feedback, and generate excitement about your upcoming release. Remember, connecting with your community doesn’t conclude after the last chapter. It’s essential for creating momentum and a lasting connection with your audience.
Then, embrace resilience. The path of an author is rarely smooth: setbacks and critiques are part of the process. View each obstacle as a stepping stone toward improvement. Remain committed to your vision while being open to learning and adapting. This mindset will not only elevate your writing but also solidify your role as a thought leader within your field.
As the founder of iCreateWords and a bestselling author, I’ve witnessed how this approach can inspire success and empower others. Your story carries immense potential to impact lives, so launch it into the world confidently and with purpose.
What is the best advice you have ever heard?
One of the most impactful pieces of advice I’ve ever received comes from Steve Jobs, who stated, “The people who are crazy enough to think they can change the world are the ones who do.” This quote connects deeply with my journey not only as a successful author of “Pragmatic Time Management: A Productivity Multiplier” but also as the founder of iCreateWords.
As I started writing my book, I was driven by a desire to challenge the status quo around productivity and time management. I believed that by sharing insights from my experiences in technology and leadership, I could inspire others to rethink their approaches and become more effective in their pursuits. This conviction is what propelled me to pen my thoughts, knowing that they could have a transformative impact on readers who are facing similar struggles.
Transitioning into my role as a founder, I realized that this spirit of “thinking differently” is fundamental to entrepreneurship. At iCreateWords, we’re committed to disrupting the traditional branding and marketing approaches by leveraging technology for good and employing deep tech solutions. Our mission is to empower startups and small businesses with innovative solutions that allow them to thrive, challenging the notion that success is reserved for a select few.
What are you reading now?
At present, I’m engaged in reading “Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World” by David Epstein, a book that has profound implications for both my personal journey and the strategic direction of iCreateWords. Epstein’s central thesis, that a diverse range of experiences fosters creativity and innovation, speaks directly to the current dynamic business environment, where the ability to synthesize knowledge across multiple domains is increasingly important.
As an entrepreneur, I’ve come to appreciate how integrating insights from various fields can lead to transformative results for our clients. In a time dominated by specialization, Epstein highlights that generalists often have the upper hand in problem-solving. This notion resonates with my path, as I have cultivated a broad skill set and diverse experiences that empower me to address complex challenges with inventive solutions. Each interaction and lesson learned along the way adds depth to my understanding and enhances my ability to innovate.
Epstein’s insights reinforce the idea that resilience and adaptability are paramount in entrepreneurship. In a world where market dynamics can shift in an instant, the capacity to pivot based on comprehensive insights allows businesses to maintain a competitive edge.
What’s next for you as a writer?
Looking ahead as a writer, I’m excited to work on a book that captures my journey as the founder of iCreateWords, a disruptive startup aiming to change the future of digital branding. This book will look deep into the heart of innovation and show how it can empower entrepreneurs and reshape industries.
I want to do more than just outline strategies. I aim to share real stories of resilience and creativity, including the unexpected twists that define our paths as we seek success. By including my experiences along with those of other founders, I’m creating a resource that feels genuine and relatable to anyone eager to carve out their unique space in the business world.
This upcoming book will serve as a practical guide for aspiring entrepreneurs, filled with actionable insights that encourage them to embrace their journeys and challenge the status quo. Life in business is often unpredictable, but I believe that by embracing an innovative mindset, anyone can make a meaningful impact in their field.
This project gives me a chance to highlight the values behind iCreateWords, specifically, our mission to use technology as a tool for good and foster social responsibility. I hope to inspire readers not only to pursue their dreams but also to consider how they can contribute positively to their communities.
What is your favorite book of all time?
My favorite book is “The Innovator’s Dilemma” by Clayton Christensen. This insightful read explores why successful companies often struggle to embrace new technologies and innovations, even when they have a strong track record.
What I like about this book is how it combines scientific analysis with real-world examples. Christensen highlights that even the best companies can overlook new opportunities because they are too focused on their current customers and existing products. This lesson really resonates with me as a founder. At iCreateWords, I strive to keep our approach fresh and innovative, always ready to adapt to changes in the marketplace.
“The Innovator’s Dilemma” has shaped my understanding of how important it is to be open to new ideas and to challenge the status quo. It encourages leaders to think differently and recognize that innovation isn’t just for startups, but it’s critical for businesses of all sizes.
Author Websites and Profiles
Nathan Clarke Website
Nathan Clarke Amazon Profile
Nathan Clarke Author Profile Other Bookseller
Nathan Clarke’s Social Media Links
Goodreads Profile
Twitter Account