We often think of golf as a game of precision, but it’s also a game of creativity. The design of each hole demands creative problem-solving, and navigating the course requires a certain degree of mental flexibility. But where does that creativity come from?
Interestingly, it’s often when I’m walking the course, soaking in the natural surroundings, that I find my most creative thoughts flowing.
According to studies on Attention Restoration Theory, the soft fascination we experience when immersed in nature—watching trees sway, listening to birds, and even walking the fairways—gently restores our cognitive resources. For me, that means being more open to new ideas, fresh perspectives, and innovative solutions both on and off the course.
It’s no surprise, then, that some of my best leadership strategies have come to me while playing golf. It’s not just about escaping the office for a few hours—it’s about recharging my mind so I can approach leadership challenges with renewed creativity. Golf, in this sense, becomes a breeding ground for ideas, and that’s something I always encourage in the leaders I work with.
