“My battle today was with my mind and staying in the present.”
— Rory McIlroy, after winning his first US Masters golf championship.

If you’re a long-time reader of these weekly emails, you’ll know I’ve written several times over the years about Rory McIlroy and his long-time ambition to fulfill his childhood dream of winning the US Masters.

For many years it seemed like it was never going to happen. So it feels only right to write about him again after his dramatic win yesterday in Augusta.

The quote above was spoken during the press Q&A directly after the ceremony. Rory is known for his honesty in interviews, and once again, he gave a refreshing insight into what it’s really like to be an elite sportsperson.

He described being the most nervous he’d ever felt as he stepped onto the first tee of the final round. He shared the doubts that crept in as it seemed like his lead might slip away. And he also spoke about his resilience—his ability to bounce back and his determination to keep going.

In doing so, he described something universal: what it’s like to be someone striving for something that feels just out of reach.

But he also reminded us of something that elite performers understand deeply:

• The present moment is where your true power lies.

Later in the interview, Rory described a vital moment with his long-time friend and caddie, Harry Diamond, just before the first playoff hole.

Bear in mind—Rory had just lost his lead and missed a putt that could have won the competition. His mind was vulnerable to doubt, regret, and self-criticism.

What would you have said to Rory in that moment?

Here’s what his caddie, Harry, said: 

“You know, you would have given your right arm to be in this position at the start of the week.”

Genius. 

Rory said it was the perfect comment to reset his mind. It helped him drop the regret, release the pity-party thinking, and shift his focus back to appreciating the opportunity in front of him.

What a brilliant caddie. That one line was worth millions in prize money, but when it came to McIlroy’s peace of mind, self-esteem and future confidence…

priceless.

And it made me think: we can all be like that for someone.

We can all offer a phrase, a presence, a perspective shift that helps someone else get out of their head and back into the moment.

There is a battle going in at times in everyone’s mind. Don’t be fooled by appearances. And if one of the world’s best athletes needs that kind of support, why wouldn’t the rest of us?

This week, a reflection:

Who around you could use a reset?

Who can you be a great ‘caddie’ to?

And how might you be the calm voice inside that brings them back to the present?

Best,

Shane

P.S. If you’re looking to strengthen your ability to reset, refocus, and improve your ability to stay present—my new Audio Club is for you. Each month, I share powerful insights to help you perform at your best, even under pressure. Join now and get instant access to this month’s episode. Full details here. 

The Inner Edge Podcast – Most Recent Episode:

Ep 226:What Is The Problem Your Mind Is Trying To Solve?

Listen on my website here or on all major podcasting platforms.

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