https://dnl.nyc3.cdn.digitaloceanspaces.com/uploads/MkVNfvORuvoVH4nRP2rYyqq80BOoncijwl6gBSns.jpg

Rory McIlroy

2025 Masters Champion
EPISODE 187

Be open-minded

Is it a sign of weakness to change your mind?

Sure, leaders need to have the courage of their convictions.

But often, good leadership means hearing others’ perspectives and letting your perspective evolve as you get more information.

Nobody understands that better than professional golfer Rory McIlroy, who, like all pro players, has had to navigate the seismic conflict between PGA Tour and the LIV Tour.

In this episode, hear what it looks like to keep an open mind as you lead—plus see how Rory mentally prepares to be at his best in the biggest moments.

You’ll also learn:

  • What you might be getting wrong about goal-setting
  • Rory’s ideas on how the PGA and LIV could work together for the greater good of golf
  • One crucial habit you need to work well with friends
  • How juggling (yes, juggling!) has helped Rory’s golf game, plus other mindset tricks

Take your learning further. Get proven leadership advice from these (free!) resources:

The How Leaders Lead App: A vast library of 90-second leadership lessons to stay sharp on the go 

Daily Insight Emails: One small (but powerful!) leadership principle to focus on each day

Whichever you choose, you can be sure you’ll get the trusted leadership advice you need to advance your career, develop your team, and grow your business.

More from Rory McIlroy

Be willing to change your mind based on new information
Don't get too entrenched in a single point of view. Keep an open mind and have the courage to change your opinion once you hear new information or a fresh perspective.
Reframe failure as an opportunity to learn
Nobody likes to fall short of a goal. But failure is a powerful teacher. It can prompt personal reflection and growth so you do better next time.
Make your goals process-driven, not just results-driven
Yes, you’ve got to set big goals (like winning the Masters!). But it’s just as important to create strong systems and processes that help you accomplish them.
You can learn from anyone
Leadership lessons are everywhere. The key is being open enough to catch them—even in a passing comment or a single line from a stranger.

Get daily insights delivered straight to your inbox every morning

Short (but powerful) leadership advice from entrepreneurs and CEOs of top companies like JPMorgan Chase, Target, Starbucks and more.

Clips

  • Open, honest communication is key to working with friends
    Rory McIlroy
    Rory McIlroy
    2025 Masters Champion
  • You can learn from anyone
    Rory McIlroy
    Rory McIlroy
    2025 Masters Champion
  • Make your goals process-driven, not just results-driven
    Rory McIlroy
    Rory McIlroy
    2025 Masters Champion
  • Reframe failure as an opportunity to learn
    Rory McIlroy
    Rory McIlroy
    2025 Masters Champion
  • Try to see things from another's perspective
    Rory McIlroy
    Rory McIlroy
    2025 Masters Champion
  • Don't get too entrenched in your own point of view
    Rory McIlroy
    Rory McIlroy
    2025 Masters Champion
  • Be willing to change your mind based on new information
    Rory McIlroy
    Rory McIlroy
    2025 Masters Champion

Explore more topical advice from the world’s top leaders in the How Leaders Lead App

The #1 app to help you become a better boss, coach, or leader
Apple App Store