Golf lessons that go far beyond the course

Confession, I’m a bit of a golf fan. The kind who jumps at the chance to volunteer at the Tour Championship in Atlanta—and I have to say, it was incredible. It reminded me why I love golf so much, and how the game can teach lessons that extend far beyond the fairways.

Leadership isn't always loud.

From my spot by the 14th green, I witnessed caddies quietly leading, offering support and belief when it mattered most. Leadership is often about empowering others to perform at their best, offering support, guidance, and belief when it’s needed most - not about who speaks the loudest.

Decide, commit, and execute.

Just like in business, the players reminded me how crucial it is to block out distractions, make a decision, and commit fully—even when the stakes are high. Focus and commitment pave the way to success.

 
Stay Open to Change

A former colleague used to talk about, "strong opinions, lightly held." This idea has always resonated with me. It’s about being confident in your approach but also having the humility and self-awareness to adapt when new information or circumstances arise. Whether you're navigating the golf course or shifting market dynamics in business, flexibility and a growth mindset are key to thriving in any environment. Things will change, your success depends on how well you evolve with them.

“The Harder I Work, the Luckier I Get”

Each evening, as I walked off the course, I could see the famous quote attributed to Gary Player come to life. The crowds were gone, but players, coaches, and caddies stayed on the range, putting in the extra work. Success rarely happens by chance. Those incremental improvements, the small gains from years of dedication, set the pros apart. In golf, as in life, the ones who turn up and grind consistently often end up a little “luckier” than the competition.

The Power of Community

For all the glamor of the event and the incredible golf, the most rewarding aspect of my experience was working alongside and meeting the dedicated group of volunteers. The simple act of wearing the same volunteer shirt and cap created an immediate sense belonging and common purpose. Everyone was part of the same team, barriers to connection were shattered, and people were sharing parts of their personal lives that no strangers would ever contemplate doing so quickly. For me, it reinforced the importance of building community; fostering, recognizing and valuing the efforts of every single team member, no matter how big or small their role. In business, as in any large-scale event, success is rarely achieved alone. It’s the collective effort of a community, each person playing their part towards a common goal, that drives success.

I’ve already marked my calendar for next year, and if you’re a fan of the game I’d recommend you consider it too! Volunteering at the Tour Championship deepened my love for the game, increased my appreciation for sunscreen - it was hot! - and reminded me just how important it is to take time to do what you love.