Note: Paul MacCormack joined us on the second episode of Leadership on the Links, Podcast episode. As we enter the dog days of summer – a time when the demands of the profession are at their peak – we invited Paul to share his perspective. His perspective serves as a valuable reminder that how we navigate the season is just as important as the results we achieve.

If you think about all great coaches both past and present, it was never about winning. If we pause and reflect on all of the great music producers or artistic mentors, it is never about recording a hit record or helping to produce the perfect painting. If that was all about, struggle would ensue. The pressure to perform becomes a barrier and the creativity required to unlock the possibility gets buried under layers of stress and anxiety. 

All great coaches, producers and leaders have one thing in common; they are able to create the conditions for potential to be realized. They can help those in their charge to dive deeper into themselves and tap into things they never knew existed. They show how a shift in perspective can free up creativity and allow solutions to find you. The hit record, the championship or the breakthrough at work happens by accident; it’s simply a by product of the process. 

Have you ever wondered about the ingrained patterns and internal stories that keep you from a happier, more fulfilling existence? 

What if there were someone who could create the conditions that would allow you to move past these issues and access a deeper, wiser part of yourself? 

What if, by working in concert with a coach, you could begin to bring a deeper awareness to all your experiences and start living a happier, more peaceful life? 

This is why The Mindful Super Coaching Program was created. My years as an Assistant, Superintendent and General Manager have taught me a great deal. My career has taken me far and allowed me to meet so many wonderful people who have shown me that there are ways to be in the turf industry and live a good life at the same time.

But it’s my time in silent reflection (along with speaking, writing and teaching about mindful living) that has taught me…

• That presence is the foundation of life. 
• The value of a flexible perspective.
• That it’s ok to not always know the right answer
•  And that I can achieve far more by accomplishing far less. 

Winning and success aren’t the most important things…simply being here, right now and allowing life to unfold naturally, is the way. 

When we are able to practice and place our intention on reflection and introspection, 

• We begin to move past our internal barriers and gain more insight into how we work best. 
• We learn how to deal with stress, overthinking and conflict in more positive ways. 
• We come to recognize the value of (un) learning and simplicity.
• We learn the value of failure and the power of learning to let things be. 
• We come to understand that force and hard work, while valuable in and of themselves, aren’t always the best options. 

A great coach can teach many things, but that isn’t their main job. When they can help you see through a different lens and begin to develop a deeper wisdom by which to live your life, their true value is revealed. 

If this sounds like something that piques your interest, head to Mindfulisle.com and follow the links to The Mindful Super Coaching Program. 

Take Care,

Paul MacCormack

About the Author

Paul’s professional career has been spent within the framework of the Turfgrass Industry. As both a golf course superintendent and General Manager, Paul has worked closely with staff and ownership to cultivate a work culture of acceptance, compassion and personal growth. 

As an author, speaker and mindfulness meditation teacher, Paul has dedicated the last decade of his career to sharing his passion for the practice of mindfulness and how it can improve overall well being. 

Paul is a certified Mindfulness Meditation Teacher (2021) through the Mindfulness Meditation Teachers Certification Program and also a graduate of the University of Prince Edward Island with a BA in Psychology.