I’ve spent years reflecting on how the game of golf aligns with key leadership principles. One area that continues to fascinate me is how being on the course restores my mental focus and enhances decision-making. There’s something truly powerful about stepping onto a golf course—whether it’s a secluded Scottish links or a lush parkland setting.
According to Attention Restoration Theory (ART), proposed by Rachel and Stephen Kaplan in 1989, being in a natural, restorative environment can reduce mental fatigue and boost cognitive performance.
I’ve found that to be true in my personal experience. On the course, the pressure of day-to-day leadership decisions falls away, replaced by the calming influence of nature. I’m often more focused, and with that focus comes clarity of thought. After a few hours on the course, I feel mentally refreshed and ready to tackle any challenges waiting for me back at the office.
It’s this aspect of golf that has become more than just a hobby—it’s a practice in mindfulness, focus, and rejuvenation. Leadership demands a great deal of concentration, and I’ve found golf offers the perfect antidote to the mental drain of executive life.
