The golfing world lost a world-class champion as Arnold Palmer died on the weekend. He will always be considered a legend around the world.
Golf has had it’s share of great champions over the years but perhaps Arnold Palmer stands out above them all.
His golfing style was unique and his influence in the sport of golf is unmatched.
His professional career coincided with the the advent of television which helped propel him into the world as an ambassador of the game. The game of golf grew as he succeeded as a professional.
But what strikes me now is that his best golf as a professional was over 50 years ago. And yet he’s as popular now as when he won his first major in 1958.
His Legacy
It seems that the only times we consider our own legacy is during a valedictorian’s graduation speech or someone’s funeral. So here we are again, now in light of Arnold Palmer’s death, faced with questions about life, meaning and purpose. These may seem to be simply philosophical in nature but they get to the core of who we are and why we’re here.
He made the most of what he had been given.
Unlike many golfers, Arnold Palmer, grew up “on the other side of the tracks” the son of a greens keeper in Pennsylvania. Considered a “blue-collar” golfer perhaps endeared him to his fans. He didn’t let his modest beginnings keep him from pursuing his passion. He played the course after hours often accompanied by his mother after the rest of the golfers had finished.
He followed his passion
“The most rewarding things you do in life are often the ones that look like they cannot be done.” Arnold Palmer
He recognized his ability to play the game of golf and worked hard to improve. He had a burning desire for the game and a style all his own. No one did it like he did. His signature swing would be recognized around the world but never duplicated. As his televised career continued to explode, he became a national celebrity.
He left a lasting impact on people
Perhaps, more than his total number of victories (62) or Majors won (7); the reason Arnold Palmer will be remembered with such fondness because of the way he treated people. He was always making eye contact with the fans, shaking hands, signing autographs, establishing a personal connection with everyone he came in contact with.
He inspired others with his focus, passion, ability and love of people. He not only excelled at what he did, but in how he did it. And people loved him for it.
What is your legacy going to be?
I think most people want to be able to someday look back on their lives confident that they made the most of them. I know that’s what I want.
How can we do that?
I believe God has created each one of us with a specific purpose in mind. I don’t know about you but I find that to be an incredible thing; and something to be discovered and lived.
The apostle Paul had no doubt about what his life’s purpose was.
“I no longer consider my life as dear unto myself; only that I fulfill the mission and calling given to me by God himself.”
Acts 20:24
Passions + skills & abilities + personality = your mission
Your dreams and passions. What do you love to do? What do you do that makes time stand still or cause you to lose track of time altogether.
Your skills and abilities. What comes naturally to you? What do others find difficult that you don’t? What problems do you solve for others?
Your Personality. Are you creative? Do you like to work alone or in a group? Are you analytical? Verbal? Adventurous? Dominant? Solemn? Outgoing? Calm? Logical?
Your Mission Is Your Legacy…Live it Now
As you get clear on these three things, your mission and purpose will as well. When we live according to our passions, abilities and our personality we begin to live our legacy.
Arnold Palmer has left a legacy. You and I will leave a legacy too. So why don’t we live it now.
Q. What do you want your legacy to be and why?
Q. How are you living it now?
Q. What’s hindering you from living a meaningful legacy today?
Feeling stuck? Not sure what to do next? Life coaching can help. Contact me to arrange a free 30-minute discovery call. Lets talk.
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