It's Not Just What’s in Your Bag, It’s What 's in Your Heart.

Zach Johnson's accomplishment in winning the Master’s is huge. Here is a young player who was able to beat the world’s best players on a very difficult course. He is not the longest hitter, but his game was consistent and his thinking was clear. His short game was solid and his course management was sound, laying up on par 5’sand making birdies, rather than going for the eagle and making big numbers. His equipment was the best that Titleist can offer. However, he had one more additional component that helped him to win: his faith.

This year’s Master’s ended on Easter Sunday, an auspicious day for any Christian. Zach has a strong faith. In the interview immediately following his win, he thanked so many people for help: his sponsors, his wife, his coaches, all very important supports for his success. He also stated that it was a special day being Easter and he felt Jesus walking with him.

I have seen a lot of ads from Titleist in the last couple of days highlighting all their clubs and the Pro V1x that Jach used to win the tournament. This is heaven for Titleist and they are appropriately cashing in on his success with their equipment. However, as if often the case, what is inside the game is often given little attention. However, let’s take a look at the impact of this reality on peak performance.

The post game interviewer, I don’t remember who it was, asked Zach how he kept from being so nervous coming down the last few holes. Zach replied that he was nervous, but he felt Jesus walking with him and that kept him focused. For those without any spiritual life it may be difficult to understand what this is. Zach did not imagine Jesus walking with him. He was not creating some “positive visualization” to help him stay calm, he actually felt the real presence of Jesus by his side. This is what a spiritual life is for; to help us when we need the help. Jesus did not give the Master’s to Zach. He earned it. He has skill, he works hard to improve his game and he is an accomplished player. However, at the PGA Tour level there is very little that separates the players. They all have great talent; otherwise they would not be there. Tiger was only a couple of strokes back, he could have won if he had not made a couple of mistakes.

Most of the focus tends to be on equipment and technique in the world of golf. There is less attention paid to one’s inner life. But let’s face it, winning is often only a couple strokes different so whatever additional tools one has in his or her arsenal, then that might help make the difference, especially under the extreme pressure of the PGA tour.

One’s spiritual inner life is a real and tangible thing. A strong connection provides access to a world of energy that is not available to the less than aware person. The spiritual presence, by nature, is peaceful, focused, dynamic and reassuring. It is also very loving and joyful. These qualities help to uplift consciousness and help provide inner strength during adverse times, like coming down the backstretch with Tiger Woods breathing down your neck.

The spiritual world is real for those who know. It is a mystery for those who do not. It is real, tangible and helpful. It is not wishful thinking or imagination. It provides a little extra to help manage the trials and tribulations of everyday life. The spiritual reality is an infusion into every cell of being and a fountain of faith in the heart.

When we are looking at peak performance, everyone is looking for the edge to be as great as they can be. I just wanted to highlight the extra help that Zach Johnson received on that special Easter Sunday. Can you imagine how much more support he must have felt? He was not alone. He felt the presence of someone that loved him for just being Zach. It did not matter what his score was. That kind of love is unconditional. It is the kind of loving presence that soothes the heart and revitalizes the soul. It is a great resource to have in addition to the newest Titlesit irons and driver.

So, when is comes to great golf, it is not just what is in your bag that matters, it also helps to have the right stuff in your heart. I heard a story about a man who was in prison and was a devotee of Paramahansa Yogananda. This prison was a pretty tough place. As we was being release, his cell mate asked him, “Who was that big guy with the orange rob, who was standing behind you and guarding you every night?” Guess who? There are realms of help that are not so far away. The more you look inside, the closer you get.

If you would like to learn how to deepen your inner life and get more help in your game, drop me a note.
mannr@ronmann.com
Eternal Blessings,
Ron Mann, Ph.D.