“Concentration is a fine antidote to anxiety.”
– Jack Nicklaus, STILL the best ever to play golf, and now Congressional Gold Medal Recipient
The USGA Calendar on the wall says Wednesday is April’s genesis, and that means The Masters is merely days away.
But that’s not why today’s post is about Jack Nicklaus. Candidly, not many days go by that I don’t think about Jack. The impact the “Golden Bear” has had on golf, business (and not just the business of golf), fatherhood, husband-ing, and standing for something.
If Jack had an early tee-time on Thursday, he’d fly home for Thursday dinner and return on Friday for his afternoon round — one more night at home with Barbara and the kids.
If someone asked Jack a question, the only person within earshot of the answer who could be disappointed was someone looking for cliches. Jack has ideas and opinions, and, when asked, he shares them, without judgment or malice toward those who take different positions.
I don’t particularly like playing most of his golf courses, but I love knowing the thought process that went in to developing them, based on his consistency, commitment and passion for his work.
More than anything else, though, this quote — concentration over anxiety — captures why Jack Nicklaus inspires, motivates and impresses me. On those days when anxiety creeps in, concentration is our key to making a difference.
Matt Heston says
I have a ton of favorite Jack Nicklaus stories. My favorite from golf is #16 at Augusta in 1986, Jack hits his tee shot, Jackie (son and caddie) yells “Be Right!” Jack turns around, as the ball is in flight, and says, “It is.”
Steve Heston says
My favorite, as well, Matt!
Steve Heston says
And, he winked at Jackie before he spoke!
Tom Kennedy says
What a great golfer. Only tourney he never won was “The Hacker’s Open.”
Steve Heston says
Somehow, I just don’t think even Jack could have stayed focused in that event!