George Leonard

George Burr Leonard, born in 1923, emerged as a distinguished American writer, editor, and educator, whose life was intricately woven with a profound dedication to exploring education and the boundless potential of the human spirit. As a former United States Army Air Corps pilot, Leonard's disciplined background found a harmonious balance with his later pursuits in humanistic psychology and personal development. His leadership roles, notably as President Emeritus of the Esalen Institute and past-president of the Association for Humanistic Psychology, underscored his commitment to fostering transformative growth. A fifth-degree black belt in aikido, Leonard also co-founded the Aikido of Tamalpais dojo in Corte Madera, California, blending martial arts with a philosophical quest for self-improvement. Among Leonard's literary contributions, "Mastery: The Keys to Success and Long-Term Fulfillment" stands as his most celebrated work, delving into the intricacies of personal growth and the pursuit of excellence. This seminal book, revered for its insightful exploration of achieving mastery in various aspects of life, has resonated with readers worldwide seeking to unlock their potential. Leonard's writings often emphasized the integration of mind, body, and spirit, advocating for a holistic approach to life that transcends conventional boundaries. Leonard's writing style, characterized by clarity and eloquence, seamlessly intertwined philosophical inquiry with practical advice, making him a pivotal figure in the realm of personal development literature. His contributions extended beyond the written word, as he pioneered Leonard Energy Training (LET), a practice designed to center the mind, body, and spirit. Until his passing in 2010 at the age of 86 in Mill Valley, California, Leonard remained a luminary in his field, his legacy continuing to inspire countless individuals to embark on their own journeys of self-discovery and fulfillment.