“Dr. Washington’s new book is a great addition to a career library. Filled with excellent, good-sense advice and personal anecdotes, it feels more like a conversation with a mentor or a trusted friend than a self-help book. While short and very easy to read, it is packed full of uplifting messages and motivating counsel. It is equally suitable for someone just starting out in the workplace as it is for anyone changing career paths or setting and accomplishing new personal goals.”

-Amy S. Brennan
Collection Services Librarian/Circulation Manager
Ford Library- Fuqua School of Business
Duke University

“Advice for succeeding in life, packaged in an easily digestible format. It seems the most compelling stories of personal success are told by those who rise above major challenges in their lives and succeed against all odds. In this respect, Washington’s book follows a proven formula; the author overcame childhood demons that suggested that he wouldn’t amount to anything after he learned early on to have faith in God and himself. Washington went on to earn a PhD and become an award-winning college professor. It is this background that drives Washington’s philosophy of life, and he expertly lays it out in a little book that is both highly inspirational and inclusive of specific “lessons” from a man whose passion is teaching. Washington covers familiar ground, addressing such topics as fear, procrastination, passion, attitude, hard work and planning. But he goes beyond the typical “here’s how to succeed” manual by offering memorable, meaningful adages, including “Use Your Past, Not Abuse Your Past,” “If You Stay Ready, You Don’t Have to Get Ready” and “Trouble is Easy to Get Into, But Hard to Get Out Of” (the last one was taught to him by his mother). The author organizes the book into short, focused, simply written chapters, each of which is followed by a relevant lesson. Chapter 11, for example, concerns “You and Your Associations.” Here Washington makes the perceptive point, “If you spend your time with people who are not going anywhere, how long will it be before you assume their perspectives and thoughts as your own?…When you associate with people who are positive and trying to achieve something in life, your stock goes up.” He follows this with “Developing Relationships,” a lesson that includes six specific tips to help develop and manage relationships. Washington hits all the high points and, in so doing, packs a remarkable amount of solid guidance, seasoned with personal experience, into less than 160 pages. A well-written, inspirational, uplifting book with spiritual overtones that should spur readers to achieve better things in life.”

– Kirkus Reviews

“Dr. Washington describes a degree of success that is very traditional and missing amongst some of the youth and adults of today; a positive level of success to be used in all walks of life and careers.”

-The Carolinian

“This book is inspiring for anyone who wants to live better, do more, and give more.”

Dr. Nido R. Qubein, President, High Point University

“In Life is a Choice, Dr. Washington details the best methods of reaching success in life. He explains the principles of success in a clear and exciting way. This book is dynamic, uplifting, and inspiring. It is a must read.”

Randy L. Moore, President & CEO, RLM Communications

“Dr. Washington’s book, Life is a Choice provides a road map to success, thoughtfully prepared from a man who leads the way by example. He speaks from his heart, with a piercing truth that is sure to ignite the fire required to achieve greatness in everyone who reads it.”

Sandra Dubose-Gibson, 2011 Mrs. Black North Carolina

“Life is a Choice is a book that every young person should read. Dr. Washington has captured the core elements of success in this book. He explains in practical terms methods of turning dreams into reality. His insight into the process of success creation is extraordinary and I am so glad he wrote this book to share with others.”

James H. Speed, Jr. President & CEO, North Carolina Mutual Life Insurance Company
What do people say about Dr. Washington’s speaking engagements?

  • “Your speech was amazing. I am glad I had a chance to hear it. Your story is very inspiring to me. Thank you for everything you do.”
  • “Thanks for your powerful message. I know I haven’t known you very long, but I am proud of you. Keep doing what you do.”
  • “Your insight on life is one that inspires action. I am so thankful that I had the opportunity to listen to you and know you in my life.”
  • “Your message, humility and passion brought tears to my eyes tonight. I hope I can be like you one day. Thank you for your courage and success.”
  • “For years I’ve battled fear of being heard, criticized, and rejected because my universe is safe. Well, it’s time for a change and you helped me to see it. I can’t thank you enough!”

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