L.L. Cool J sang, "Don't call it a comeback I been here for years." I am sure that is the sentiment of Tiger Woods regarding his win on Sunday at the AT&T National but the reality is that Woods is having a great comeback. His setbacks have been well documented: marital infidelity followed by divorce, three years without winning a PGA tournament and multiple injuries. After all those setbacks anyone, even Tiger Woods, needs a comeback. Having studied and written on comebacks I know the steps to a comeback and they can be seen in Woods.
He Made Necessary Changes
A comeback will always begin with change. You have to be willing to do things differently from what you've done up to this point. Tiger got divorced and bought a new home in a different part of Florida. Tiger hired a new coach Sean Foley and changed his swing. He even fired his long time caddie Steve Williams. These are significant changes and Tiger has initiated all of them. Change happens when you are committed to your comeback and that is precisely what Tiger has shown all of us.
He Restored His Confidence
Your confidence always takes a big hit when you have a setback. Confidence is crucial to a comeback it is the power that propels you into a comeback. Woods is restoring his confidence and it really goes back to last year. He won his first tournament at the unofficial Chevron World Challenge, followed by excellent play at the President's Cup in Australia. This year he shoots his lowest score ever in a final round at the Honda Classic then goes on to win the Arnold Palmer at Bay Hill. He then won again at the Memorial in spectacular fashion. He has had some struggles along the way, like his performance in the two majors, but his Tour leading third win of the season does wonders for his renewed confidence.
He Created Momentum
Momentum is your best friend when making a comeback. A little momentum can turn into a lot of momentum, which produces emerging energy and limitless passion that fuels a comeback. The success that Woods has had reworking his swing helps his momentum. Winning three tournaments already this year, including moving into second on the all-time wins list at 74, builds his momentum. The results speak for themselves: he is now number one in FedEx points for the season, fourth in the world rankings, and number one in scoring average on the PGA tour.
He Restarted His Dreams
Setbacks do not control your life. No matter what has happened you don't allow your setbacks to define you. Dreams are what focus you on your future and not your past. Even though Woods has experienced gigantic setbacks in his personal life he has moved past them. He has rehabbed his injuries and worked hard to recapture his dominant game. All of this has been motivated by his dream to be the greatest golfer of all time, to win the most tournaments of any golfer and to win the most majors. Woods is now focused on the next major that begins July 15 at Royal Lytham & St. Annes in England. I would not be surprised if the comeback continues with a British Open victory.