George Leonard
George Leonard is one of the most beloved and well-known authors of books about personal growth, positive transformation, and creative power. Since his debut novel in 1986, he has released several popular works, such as Mastery: The Keys to Success and Long-Term Fulfillment and The Way of Aikido: Life Lessons from an American Sensei. His books have been translated into over twenty languages, and he has spoken to audiences around the world on topics ranging from peak performance and personal growth to relationships and living an enlightened life.
George Leonard was born and raised in San Francisco, California in 1923. He studied English and political science at San Francisco State University and also served in the United States Navy during World War II. He returned to San Francisco after his service and became an editor and publisher at McGraw-Hill.
In 1961, he moved to Los Angeles to work as an editor of a film magazine owned by Paramount Pictures. Here, he became interested in Eastern philosophy and, in particular, Aikido, a modern martial art. He began to study the art and to incorporate his understanding of it into his writing. The success of his articles about Aikido in Psychology Today paved the way for his first book, The Way of Aikido: Life Lessons from an American Sensei.
In 1986, Leonard debuted his best-selling novel Mastery: The Keys to Success and Long-Term Fulfillment. Here, Leonard uses his knowledge of Eastern philosophy in combination with his understanding of Western psychology and personal development. The book is composed of four parts: the prelude, mental mastery, physical discipline, and spiritual training.
Following Mastery, Leonard wrote a series of books focusing on the idea of personal growth, including The Ultimate Athlete, Education and Ecstasy, The Silent Pulse, and The Transformation. In his books, Leonard combines his knowledge of human development, psychology, Eastern philosophy, and martial arts to provide insights into how each of us can reach our fullest potential and live with passion and joy.
Leonard was also an acclaimed lecturer, public speaker, and workshop leader. He spoke passionately about growth, transformation, and the power of spiritual practice. He believed firmly that we are all capable of achieving success, and that with the right understanding, we are able to become extraordinary.
Leonard continued writing and teaching until his death in 2010 at the age of 86. He left behind a legacy of books and ideas that have inspired countless people to pursue the path of growth and self-discovery. He was quick to recognize the power of his own words and the potential to transform lives. George Leonard’s work continues to inspire readers around the globe to be their best selves and to live with grace and intention.
