Sarah Blakelock

I'm considering doing life coaching as well. Being a counselor is also something I'm considering. So far, being a philosophy major has actually contributed to my growth and development significantly. Many of the ideas Leo talks about are a part of our philosophical discussions (the free will/determinsm debate, what is "the good life", how to live excellently, human knowledge, etc.). I would highly recommend a philosophy of the mind class. It has helped me understand so much more about the human mind, consciousness, and how/why enlightenment is possible. Psychology also seems fitting and useful for a life-coaching career. I'm intending on studying psychology in graduate school.

NLP: The Essential Guide to Neuro-Linguistic Programming by Tom Hoobyar, Tom Dotz, and Susan Sanders I found this book to be incredibly well-written and useful. The exercises were relatively simple, though rewiring thought patterns is usually tough. Overall, I definitely recommend it for anyone who's interested in changing the way they think.

I've personally had the best results when I read or listen to something multiple times to make sure I clearly understand the material before altering my daily habits. Otherwise I may fall into the trap of taking action immediately and realizing later that the material isn't compatible with my deepest values.

This is exactly how my parents react when I express to them a painful, negative emotion! It's like something about my ability to "feel into" my emotions and express them or describe them clearly is somehow frightening. I think it's because they've lived their whole lives suppressing their own emotions because they're too scared to face what's inside them. When they see me expressing these emotions and thoughts to them, I remind them of part of their "self" that's been locked up in a closet for decades because it's "too bad". At first, I was angry at them for being unable or unwilling to relate to or understand their own daughter, but now I see that their reaction is only a reflection of their own inner pain, not an accurate perception of me. I hope these thoughts help you in understanding, and perhaps forgiving, the people who aren't developed enough to do the same for you.

@Henri Thanks for pointing this out...it's so very true.

I am incredibly grateful for this life that I have. For being able to see, hear, smell, touch, and taste. For everything in my life--even, and especially, the painful moments that bring me closer to who I am. For all the moments in which I really feel what it is like to be alive.

I have absolutely no idea what that is! Explain?

Yeah! Anything you've learned that's contributed to your skills in bed, or more generally how you've developed sexually. (I'm thinking about Leo's videos, and i'm curious to see what people's experiences have been in applying those concepts and ideas.)

How has your sexuality developed over time? What were some experiences or ideas that shaped your sexual journey? What do you think you'll need to do in order to develop yourself sexually?

I can, and I will. Keep going. These have been some of the most powerful words/mantras. They've helped me push through so many challenges, both great and small.

Wow. I love seeing so many other young people on this forum!! And thank you to everyone who's encouraging all of us young ones. It means so much to me

That's such a hard question! There's so many! I'd have to say "What is Happiness?" was a huge one for me. The concept was so mind-blowing at the time!

Name: Sarah Blakelock Age: 19 Gender: Female Location: Houston, Texas Occupation: Philosophy student at the University of Houston Marital Status: Single Kids: No Hobbies: country and ballroom dancing, weightlifting, journaling, meditation, walking, studying and learning, working on my Dad's farm, jiu-jitsu I got into personal development two years ago, when I was a senior in high school. Leo was my first online mentor, but I soon found others who supported me as well. Personal development helped me pull myself out of a low period in my life. The amount of growth that has occurred since then is so incredible. I'm so proud of myself, for creating an amazing, passionate life. Personal challenges I've overcome (since finding out about personal development) : Depression-although looking back I would consider it mild Anorexia/Obsession with a strict diet Body image insecurities Co-dependence/neediness Shyness What I'm working on now: Creating excellent content for my new personal development channel on youtube Excelling in academics Being a great friend to all of the people in my life Health and fitness Starting to explore my sexuality