I’ve followed Rory McIlroy’s Golf Masters journey closely, ever since he blew his chances at the Masters back in 2011.

I remember that final round vividly - full of promise, but heartbreakingly derailed.

Since then, I’ve watched every year with bated breath, hoping he’d finally claim that elusive green jacket.

And last week, he did it.

Not only did he win the Masters, but he completed the career Grand Slam – something only five others have ever done.

Historic.

His final round last weekend?

A total rollercoaster - just like the week I’d had.

And if you run a business, I bet you know that feeling too.

The lead changed hands.

Momentum swung.

And interestingly, when Rory decided to ‘play it safe’ on the 13th and 18th, he dropped shots.

Playing not to lose, rather than playing to win.

It wasn’t until the tie-break that he fully committed.

He had to be brave with his second shot – and what a shot it was.

He put it inches from the hole.

A short putt for the win.

Pressure handled, history made.

But what can you take from Rory’s journey?

Firstly, it’s a rollercoaster – Success comes from how you respond, not what happens. When things go wrong (and they will), stay calm, stay focused, and move forward.

Secondly, playing it safe doesn’t always work – Sometimes, you have to back yourself and take the bold shot.

Fortune really does favour the brave.

Finally, never give up – Rory came back year after year, determined to finish the story he started.

Tenacity.

Grit.

A will to win.

It matters, and in business, just like at Augusta, those qualities are what separate the good from the great.

The wheat from the chaff.

Here’s to staying in the game.

Have a great week,

Mark