About My Books
My books consistently focuses on themes related to leadership, personal development, positive psychology, creativity, and entrepreneurship. I explore foundational topics such as acceptance, purpose, mindset, optimism, strengths, choices, gratitude, negativity, failure, resilience, values, imagination, creativity, identity, and emotions.My journey of becoming an author started when I wrote my first book, ‘‘Changing Course’’ in 2012, which focuses on how I became a golf caddie which helped me recover from a stroke I had when I was 41. Then came four other books; ‘The Entrepreneur’s Book - The crucial questions that determine success’, ‘Positive Thinking - How to create a world full of possibilities’, Inspired Thinking - How to discover new ideas for meaningful success’ and ‘The Creative Thinking Book - How to ignite and boost your creativity’. My latest book , ‘The Leadership Book’ - Achieving the Empathetic Edge’ will be published in 2026.
‘The Entrepreneurs’s Book’ is a fresh take on the question, ‘What makes a successful entrepreneur?’ Neil writes with honesty, humour and humanity about how is recovery from a life-threatening illness led him to a host of entrepreneurs and businesspeople and their experiences of success (and sometimes failure!).’
Sir Tom Shebbeare, Chairman, Virgin Start Up
His books knit together theory and practice in a way that is both easy to follow and easy to adopt. And why would we not wish to adopt practices that add value, encourage creativity and inspire others? Unlike some books which use global phenomena as case studies, Neil’s latest book uses realistic, close-to-home examples which enable the reader to empathise with the protagonists and identify with the situation thus encouraging changes in behaviour which in turn make a difference and help to deliver success.”
Malcolm Cannon, National Director IoD Scotland
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It is refreshing to read a book, where the human side of the word “entrepreneur” is front and centre. All too often today’s media present us with a skewed perspective on what an entrepreneur is really all about. And it is not simply money…
Jim Duffy MBE Co , Founder of Entrepreneurial Spark and author of ‘Create Special’
Neil Francis manages to weave his personal experiences with existing ideas on positive thinking and well-being in an engaging text. Drawing on contemporary examples and practical advice, he offers an opportunity to use positive thinking to capitalise on the opportunities that present themselves while recognising our own capabilities.’
David Marshall Professor of Marketing and Consumer Behaviour, University of Edinburgh Business School.
‘Positive Thinking’ A refreshingly candid book that draws on an engaging personal story to discuss what drives us all and gives us a sense of worth. Being honest, I started by bracing myself for cliches and a bit of a lecture, as so many ’self-help’ books have started to look out of touch with reality. But Neil Francis has kept his thoughts and writing firmly on the ground in a way that I thoroughly enjoyed and could easily relate to.’
Mark Beaumont
Athlete, Broadcaster, Ambassador and World Record Holder for Cycling the World
‘If you ever want to unlock your creativity and know more about how to develop your creative thinking, then go read this book. Neil’s step by step approach and practical tips make it such an easy read. This book offers a refreshing perspective on a subject which so crucial to human potential. I highly recommend it.’’
Dr Catherine Hua Xiang, The London School of Economics and Political Science
If you’ve ever wondered what positive thinking is (and is not), this is the book to read. Neil Francis shows us how to live more meaningful, productive, fulfilling lives. The practical tips and strategies are based on sound scientific theory, not wishy-washy wishful thinking. I highly recommend it.
Dr David Gillespie, Consultant Clinical Neuropsychologist and Clinical Research Fellow
‘The Creative Thinking Book carries a fundamental message: we can all be innovators! It is in our DNA to be creative. This message should gladden the heart of any educator. At the same time, it is a call to action to all of us devoting our life to educating future generations – “mothers, teachers, coaches, professors … creativity is contagious… cherish your creative potential and pass it along!’
Dr Sue Rossano-Rivero, Acting Professor for innovation management and business development. FH Münster university of applied sciences, Germany
