Otto Scharmer’s Theory U introduces the idea of leading from a place of deep listening and presence. For me, the golf course offers the perfect environment for this kind of leadership development.
Out on the course, the usual distractions of daily business life melt away, and leaders have the space to listen—not just to their coaches or playing partners, but to themselves.
When coaching executives on the golf course, I use moments of silence and reflection to help them tap into deeper insights about their leadership. Scharmer’s U-shaped process—letting go of old patterns and opening up to new ways of thinking—naturally unfolds on the course.
Leaders often find that as they become more present, their intuition sharpens, and they begin to see leadership challenges from a fresh perspective.
Golf is a game that demands presence. You can’t think too far ahead or dwell on past mistakes; you need to focus on the shot in front of you. In this sense, it’s a powerful metaphor for leadership.
When leaders can stay present, listen deeply, and remain open to new possibilities, they unlock the potential to lead in a more conscious, innovative way.
