I am human . . .
About The Author
In this collection of blog posts, I introduce myself (Reza Zolfagharifard), share some of my choices, and highlight my favourite books, poems and articles. It’s an autobiographical patchwork of my life, offering snapshots of what I’ve done, how I think and who I am. This section, About (the author), includes the following parts.
A Brief Autobiography
My Favourites (books, articles or poems)
Why I Don’t Believe in God
Air Force Days
Moving To The UK
Teaching Days
Coaching Days
Volunteering
Retirement Projects
I welcome your comments and questions about the topics on this website. Please use the contact form provided.
Autobiography
I am a retired positive psychology practitioner (2015-2025) with decades of experience in teaching, training, consulting and coaching. I have helped many individuals fulfil their aspirations, achieve positive change and thrive. I have provided life coaching to individuals and groups, as well as management and positive psychology consultancy and corporate training to various organisations.
My Favourites
Good poems (or songs) are characterised by strong vocabulary, vivid imagery, impactful rhythm and sound, an engaging message, and the ability to evoke suppressed emotions and transport the reader to new paradigms. This transition is often achieved through figurative language and precise details, creating a meaningful and memorable experience.
Why I Don’t Believe
Humans are prone to false beliefs because our thinking is shaped by biases, social pressures, and emotions that can outweigh logic and facts. We often follow popular opinions to fit in or respond to emotional appeals, making us more likely to accept misinformation, even if we are intelligent. False beliefs usually form in the same way as true ones, mostly through social and emotional reasoning instead of careful, critical thinking.
My Political Standing
Good poems (or songs) are characterised by strong vocabulary, vivid imagery, impactful rhythm and sound, an engaging message, and the ability to evoke suppressed emotions and transport the reader to new paradigms. This transition is often achieved through figurative language and precise details, creating a meaningful and memorable experience.
Air Force Days
After I finished high school, which is equivalent to the UK’s A-levels, I tried to get into Tehran University. At the time, the entrance test was becoming more difficult, and competition was increasing. I was offered a place in modern European history, which was one of the options I had ticked on the form. However, I had hoped to study mathematics, nuclear physics, or engineering. Otherwise, I would have had to accept conscription and join the army. I was weighing my options when I saw an advert in a national newspaper (I think it was Kyhaun) about joining the Air Force as a pilot. It seemed like a good way out of a dilemma I was facing. I took a coin from m
Moving To The UK
After I finished high school, which is equivalent to the UK’s A-levels, I tried to get into Tehran University. At the time, the entrance test was becoming more difficult, and competition was increasing. I was offered a place in modern European history, which was one of the options I had ticked on the form. However, I had hoped to study mathematics, nuclear physics, or engineering. Otherwise, I would have had to accept conscription and join the army. I was weighing my options when I saw an advert in a national newspaper (I think it was Kyhaun) about joining the Air Force as a pilot. It seemed like a good way out of a dilemma I was facing. I took a coin from m
Teaching Days
After I finished high school, which is equivalent to the UK’s A-levels, I tried to get into Tehran University. At the time, the entrance test was becoming more difficult, and competition was increasing. I was offered a place in modern European history, which was one of the options I had ticked on the form. However, I had hoped to study mathematics, nuclear physics, or engineering. Otherwise, I would have had to accept conscription and join the army. I was weighing my options when I saw an advert in a national newspaper (I think it was Kyhaun) about joining the Air Force as a pilot. It seemed like a good way out of a dilemma I was facing. I took a coin from m
Coaching Days
After I finished high school, which is equivalent to the UK’s A-levels, I tried to get into Tehran University. At the time, the entrance test was becoming more difficult, and competition was increasing. I was offered a place in modern European history, which was one of the options I had ticked on the form. However, I had hoped to study mathematics, nuclear physics, or engineering. Otherwise, I would have had to accept conscription and join the army. I was weighing my options when I saw an advert in a national newspaper (I think it was Kyhaun) about joining the Air Force as a pilot. It seemed like a good way out of a dilemma I was facing. I took a coin from m
Volunteering Work
I have worked with and supported several charitable organisations, including SOVA, Community Options, Shaw Trust and the NHS, that promote mental health, educate the public and assist people in overcoming adversity and misfortune. My voluntary engagements have helped me reach out to the community, contribute a little and hopefully make a small difference. As a result, I have made good friends, learned new skills, and, more importantly, gained a warm sense of connection and belonging.
Retirement Projects
After I finished high school, which is equivalent to the UK’s A-levels, I tried to get into Tehran University. At the time, the entrance test was becoming more difficult, and competition was increasing. I was offered a place in modern European history, which was one of the options I had ticked on the form. However, I had hoped to study mathematics, nuclear physics, or engineering. Otherwise, I would have had to accept conscription and join the army. I was weighing my options when I saw an advert in a national newspaper (I think it was Kyhaun) about joining the Air Force as a pilot. It seemed like a good way out of a dilemma I was facing. I took a coin from m