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In golf, long drives are visually impressive, capturing attention and admiration. However, the short game, particularly putting, is ultimately what determines a player’s score and often the outcome of tournaments. A player may hit booming drives, but if they struggle on the green, they are unlikely to achieve low scores. Imagine a golfer reaching the green in two strokes fewer than their opponent, but then taking three putts to sink the ball, while the opponent one-putts for par. The longer hitter may appear more skilled to the casual observer, but the more accurate putter wins the hole.

This concept extends beyond the golf course and can be applied to various aspects of life and business. It highlights the importance of focusing on the fundamental, often less glamorous aspects of a task or project that ultimately contribute to success. Flashy presentations or initial bursts of effort are akin to the long drive – they generate attention but may not deliver tangible results. The meticulous work, the attention to detail, the consistent execution these are the equivalent of putting, where real progress is made and true value is created. This principle is believed to have gained popularity in the mid-20th century as professional golf became more prominent, and the statistical analysis began to highlight the correlation between putting proficiency and tournament victories.

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