'If your dream is specific, measurable and responsible, and makes the world a better place - go for it.'

Roz Townsend is a Bathurst-based author and educationalist who has published nine best-selling books. Her books have now been translated into many languages and are currently available globally in at least eight countries. Roz has connected to millions of people and has even appeared on national Chinese and Indian television. She takes great delight in teaching people new-found skills such as speed reading, which through practice can improve attainment of goals. Her profound knowledge in educational psychology and social psychology are highly regarded in Australia. Despite living in a rural town, Roz continues to assist people realise their life/work potential through her workshops, writing and website. Roz was a finalist in the 2010 Premier's NSW Export Awards.

What gave you the motivation/inspiration to follow your dream?

I had been a teacher and lecturer in a number of educational institutions and also bought a franchise teaching communication skills. I realised after a while that people wanted ‘me’, not the franchise, so I sold the business and wrote my own books. At one point a woman in a course in Broken Hill came up to me after I shared that I wanted to write a book and asked for my autograph - she said she wanted it before I became famous. That was the impetus to really get committed to writing the books.

At what point did you realise that your dream was actually possible and what was it that made you think you could really do it?

After I finished writing my first self-published book and had a huge order from a branch of Amway in America, I knew I was on my way.

When you were a child, what did you want to ‘be’ when you grew up?

I was brought up on a farm and was considered the ‘dumb’ one - Dad thought I should do the bookkeeping as I was not so good at school. Therefore that was all I thought about for myself. After a series of hailstorms and disease the orchard became unviable and I knew I had to leave and do something else with my life. I had always loved children and was moved by the experience of family friends with a disabled child so I decided to become a special education teacher.

How did your childhood influence you in later life?

Growing up on a farm, I became very competent in many practical areas of rural life and developed a strong work ethic. I also realised that farm life was a huge risk and I wanted a more regular source of income. These two factors have helped me develop a diverse range of interests and to be financially careful.

Who are your role models?

I have many role models. My children are two of them - one daughter has such a wonderful laugh and joy of life which I admire. The other is a really authentic talker and is able to speak the truth. I also admire Gandhi for his incredible dream and passion. Mother Theresa stands out too for her commitment to the poor and her awareness that material wealth does not equal inner wealth.

What does success mean to you?

Success is doing and being what you love with the people you love and then sharing that with those less fortunate.
What has been one of the biggest barriers you have had to face, what happened, and how did you overcome it?
Just starting to write my first book and not knowing how or where to begin was one of my biggest obstacles. But when I shared this experience, lo and behold, I met another author who gave me some directions to get started. I just needed to share what I was up to and talk about it with others.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years time? What is your vision for the future?

I see myself doing more book promotions in more countries and having enough money for members of my family to join me on these adventures.I see myself using my books to develop communication skills on the planet.

What would you like to say to other women who may be just starting out on a Daring to Dream journey?

If your dream is specific, measurable and responsible, and makes the world a better place - go for it.Start sharing your dream now. Write it down, get images and pictures of what the dream might look like. Take action. Get a mentor. Remember there is no failure in life - only feedback. Mix with people who believe in you and want you to be successful. Give space to those who want to pull you down. And remember, never give up!