If you thought I was going to write about The Masters, you’re right.
However, there are no golf analogies here today. Rather, let’s talk about the patrons.
Augusta National takes a unique approach to watching professional golf tournaments in the modern world. There are no cell phones allowed during the tournament. No radios. No digital devices at all. And they are serious. If you get caught, you’re immediately ejected and banned for life.
By the way, you also aren’t allowed to run there, but who really wants to do that anyway!
I’ve never personally attended a Masters tournament, but listening to those covering it and the patrons on the ground, this seemingly unjust policy is embraced. It’s the ultimate old school – no selfies, no ring tones, no distractions. People have to actually watch the events in front of them through their eyes, not their phones.
But here’s another cool thing…the shared experience.
Listening to the reporters has been fascinating. When one is on the course, they have no knowledge of what’s happening around the rest of the property. Not even the media members. They listen for the “roars” of the crowd. They are asking other patrons what they know. And then they stare spellbound at the huge scoreboards that are ubiquitous on the course, waiting for the hand held panels to change the scores. The audible gasps, cheers, and all other emotions are shared together.
In a digital world where we know everything that’s going on (whether we want to or not), this experience is part of the charm. I hope to get there one day to experience it myself.
But we all get those opportunities, don’t we?
In our life, we get chances for shared experiences within our families, associations, and work environments. I’m not suggesting that you shut down all your technology (though that might be an option), but just keep it in your pocket. Play with your kids and grandkids without the phone ready to snap pictures (this one is hard for me, so I’m working on it, too). Play your events (golf or whatever you like) focused on those around you. Eat lunch or dinner with a colleague or client without distraction.
We get shared experience opportunities daily. Perhaps we should take at least a small cue from Augusta National and revel in word “shared” more often.
Keep chasing unleashed.
Quote of the Week:
“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower.”
~ Steve Jobs
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