It is often the perception that many golfers who seek council in learning golf, assume coaches only teach the biomechanics and physical skill sets. This is far from the truth. Complete teachers incorporate the education of building a solid foundation in understanding athletic skills. But chances are, most golfers do not incorporate a structured plan to motor learning, sports psychology, or mental game training.
Recently, my good friend, Dr. David Cook sent me a copy of his new book “Greatness” with a very heartfelt note for my input and worthiness of spreading the message. I was humbled and grateful to do so. David has counseled many of my students and friends, therefore, I can speak to his incredible ability to bring out the best in all he touches with his wisdom. He is also the author of “Seven Days in Utopia, Golf’s Sacred Journey“ and “The Psychology of Tournament Golf; Playing Your Best When It Means the Most”. If you have heard, “SFT or See, Feel, Trust“, then you know the practical approach in David’s writings. I feel “Greatness” is his best book so far and can help you build your roadmap to success, but more importantly, significance. David describes greatness as “Selfless Exceptionalism”. This approach resonated with me far more than just my golf learning skills, but my quality of life and the people whose lives I’ve been fortunate to touch.
Here are a few snippets from Greatness by Dr. David Cook:
“We all get it. It’s easy to perform well we’re not on the stage. It is very different to perform your best when it means the most. Focus. Passion. Mental toughness. That’s it. When these three elements are combined, they become the greatest predictor of success, or exceptionalism. These elements serve as the first three pillars to greatness.
- Where do you want to go? Focus
- How bad do you want to get there? Passion
- Do you have the mental skills needed to handle the adversity along the journey? Mental toughness.
The depth and clarity with which you answer these questions says it all. I have never met a competitor in business, sport, or life who desires to fail. However, I meet daily with performers who consistently failed to reach their true potential when it means the most – game day. They don’t fail because they don’t try; they fail because of their answers to these three questions. They fail because they are missing a few pieces to the performance puzzle. It isn’t because they are weak in character; it’s not because of poor strategy, training or technique; it isn’t because they lack strength or fitness. They just lack knowledge about the mental game.”
These are just a few samples of how all golfers can build their own roadmap for greatness. For more, please go to www.greatnessthebook.com Enjoy, I want you to realize your goals on game day!
By Buck Mayers
Buck Mayers is the Director of Instruction at Escondido Golf & Lake Club in Horseshoe Bay, Texas. He can be reached at buckmayersgolf.com or 512.695.2270.