Swinging for Success: A Detroit Golfer’s Recipe for Life

New York Wire Staff

Horrace Mitchell found his calling in the serene greens of Palmer Park Golf Course. Since 1974, Mitchell has been using golf not just as a sport, but as a powerful metaphor for life’s challenges and triumphs.

Mitchell’s approach centers on three key elements: attitude, aptitude, and execution. These aren’t just golf terms; they’re life skills that Mitchell believes are crucial for success in any arena. “The mental is what keeps and holds everything together,” Mitchell often says, emphasizing that our mindset is the foundation of all achievement.

What sets Mitchell apart is his focus on the inner game. While many golf instructors concentrate on perfecting physical technique, Mitchell argues that true mastery begins in the mind. He believes that the mental strategies learned on the golf course can be applied to overcome challenges in all aspects of life.

Growing up in Detroit, Mitchell faced his share of obstacles. But golf provided more than just recreation; it offered a new perspective on life. He vividly remembers watching pros from the Chitterlings Tour, a circuit for Black golfers aspiring to join the PGA. These dedicated athletes, pursuing their dreams despite significant barriers, inspired Mitchell to see beyond his immediate circumstances.

Driven by these experiences, Mitchell has made it his mission to pay it forward. Through his work with the Hollywood Golf junior program, he’s helped send seven students to the PGM Program at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. These students haven’t just improved their golf skills; they’ve gained valuable life skills and opened doors to careers in the sport they love.

Mitchell’s teachings extend beyond the technicalities of golf. He emphasizes the importance of routine and tempo, not just in swinging a club but in approaching life’s challenges. “The routine gives the mind the proper things to focus on,” he explains, “while the tempo allows you to get out of the way of what has been created.”

One of Mitchell’s core beliefs is encapsulated in his oft-repeated phrase: “If it is not winning, it is not working.” But winning, in Mitchell’s book, isn’t just about outscoring your opponent. It’s about continuous improvement, facing challenges head-on, and striving to be the best version of yourself.

Mitchell’s impact reaches far beyond the golf course. His teachings have resonated with people from all walks of life, from young athletes to business professionals. He believes that the mental strategies learned through golf can be applied to any field, helping individuals overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

Mitchell’s journey is also about promoting diversity in golf. He’s inspiring a new generation of players from all backgrounds to take up the sport and excel in it. His message is clear: golf isn’t just for the elite; it’s a tool for personal growth and community development accessible to anyone willing to put in the work.

For those intrigued by Mitchell’s philosophy, his book offers a wealth of insights. But his teachings go beyond the printed page. He’s active on social media, sharing daily nuggets of wisdom with his followers and engaging with those seeking guidance.

Mitchell’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the impact one person can have when they dedicate themselves to helping others. From the greens of Palmer Park to the pages of his book, Mitchell continues to inspire and guide, one swing at a time.

As Mitchell would say, your life is your business. How you approach it determines your success. So why not take a page from his book and give your mental game the attention it deserves? You might find that improving your mindset not only lowers your golf score but elevates your entire life perspective.