Find your inner compass - and the way to a more authentic you.
Hello and welcome!
My name is Håvard.
For years, I struggled with low self-esteem, which left me feeling stuck and without direction. But by working on myself, I found a new strength and a deeper understanding of who I am. Now, I’m passionate about helping others do the same.
I know that taking the first step can be intimidating, but together we can create positive changes in your life. At NewLeaf AS, you’ll receive personal coaching and the tools you need to boost your confidence and find meaning in life.
My story
The dark shadow of bullying
As a teenager, I was often the target of bullies. Their sarcastic remarks and ostracism made me feel completely alone and invisible. I dreamed of being liked and accepted. Every day was a struggle for survival. I had no confidence and I felt like a failed version of myself.
It felt like I was trapped in a body that wasn't my own. I was like a caterpillar that desperately wanted to become a butterfly but was convinced that it would never be able to break out of its cocoon.
40 years of blind faith
As a naive and lonely teenager, I met members of the Children of God sect. I was drawn into a world that seemed perfect. There I found a strong sense of belonging and meaning. For many years I experienced it as a happy and meaningful life.
It was only many years after I had left the sect that I began to see more clearly what had really happened. Gradually I realized how deeply I had been brainwashed and manipulated. The seemingly perfect world I had lived in was built on illusions and control. I had completely lost my identity.
Finding my wings
After my life in the cult, I became obsessed with personal growth. I threw myself into books and courses, eager to transform myself. Despite all my efforts, I still felt empty.
I had always thought I was a caterpillar that needed to turn into a butterfly. What finally helped was when I realized the truth, that I was already born with colorful wings. It wasn't about transformation, but about releasing the butterfly that had always been there.
I was not destroyed, but rather hidden. My journey was not about becoming someone else, but about finding myself back.
I have described the process of rebuilding my self-confidence and finding meaning in life after the cult in my two books. 'Instängd' (Trapped) and 'Et Guds Barn' (A child of God).
Writing became my salvation.
When I first opened the door to my past and looked back, everything was hazy. It was difficult to see just how bad it had been.
Like an archaeologist, I began to brush away the dust and dirt that had collected over the years, concealing my true self.
What I uncovered shocked me. I relived details from my years in the sect that I would have preferred to forget. I came to understand how deeply I had been brainwashed.
Writing these books was necessary for me to finally break free from the sect's influence over my life. This process has given me greater confidence and faith in myself, and I look forward to embracing the life that lies ahead of me.
REVIEWS
“Lillethun has a story that isn’t just worth reading—it’s important.”
— Per Eriksen, Vårt Land
“Håvard Lillethun’s account of his 40 years in the 'Children of God' sect is both frightening and deeply thought-provoking. He deserves full credit for making a brave choice after having spent much of his life with God’s Children.”
— Tor Hammerø, Nettavisen
“A well-written and fascinating insight into the ‘Children of God’ sect from Lillethun’s perspective. He is a skilled writer who portrays his unique life in an entertaining way.”
— Daniel Gustavsson, BTJ-häftet
“An honest, open, and captivating true story... The book feels like sitting and listening to him tell it. It was so engaging that I read it quickly.”
— Kulturbloggen
From personal experience to professional guidance
Inspired by the many who recognized themselves in my story and my own journey towards transformation, I decided to share my experiences. I saw that my own struggle and victory could bring hope and growth to others.
In order to be able to support others in the best possible way, I completed an extensive coach education. Today I am a proud member of the John Maxwell Team and certified coach, speaker and teacher by John Maxwell himself. I am also a Certified Professional Coach at the Fowler Wainwright International Institute of Coaching.
Through NewLeaf AS, I offer 1:1 coaching, courses and lectures designed to help you overcome challenges such as shame and low self-esteem, achieve your goals, find your inner strength, and realize how wonderful you are. By combining my personal experience with solid coaching expertise, I create a safe space for growth and transformation.
