Greetings Golfers,

“Power tends to corrupt and absolute power corrupts absolutely.” We’ve all heard Lord Acton’s famous quote.

But is it true? I think that power reveals. Same thing with money. I don’t think that money and/or power change people … I think they reveal who people really are. Even in little ways. Some people act “nice” … but give them power over a waiter and they become nasty. They’re revealed.

When people all of a sudden make a lot of money, or get power, or win awards, etc … I usually give them some time to bask in the glow. I get it. But, they need to come back to Earth. Otherwise I don’t want to deal with them.

Power. The word even sounds strong. It’s an effective tool in golf … and life … but needs to be in control. Power that’s out of control is dangerous for everyone around it … and can be disastrous for the user. In golf and life … out of control power can put you out-of-bounds.

However, power used wisely and with a well-intentioned vision can make it a better world. But, it can’t be self-serving.

A leader has to do what is best for the group he is leading. Very often that means saying no. The group members are going to try to do what is in their best interest (or so they think). But if what they want to do is bad for the group … the leader has to stop it.

For example, if a player on a team is only concerned about his stats, the coach has to redirect his focus. A team player needs to be focused on doing what is needed to win. Or the coach needs to find a new player.

The coach needs power to make that happen.

A player can not have more power than the coach.

A hierarchy is not a bad thing.

Power is not a bad thing.

Power can be used for good.

Abuse of power is a bad thing.

Cheers,

 

Tom Abts

GM and Head Golf Professional

tabts@deerrungolf.com