I recently made one of the hardest decisions of my life.
After 11 years, I’ve decided to step away from my role at NASA.
That’s not easy to say.
I’ve worked with some of the brightest minds in the world, led projects I’m deeply proud of, and grown more than I ever imagined. But deep down, I knew it was time for something new—something that speaks even louder to my calling.
I want to help more athletes. Build the next generation of performers. And create something bold and meaningful with MPGA.
There’s a golf shot I hit recently that captures this exact moment in my life.
The lie wasn’t great. I was stuck between two hazards:
If I played it safe and left it short, I’d be in a bunker.
If I hit it too long, I’d find water over the green.
Sound familiar?
That’s what fear feels like in moments of transition.
Stay where it’s “safe” and it only gets harder.
Take the leap and risk the unknown.
But when I looked at my target and committed to my goal—without obsessing over the “what ifs”—something shifted.
I found clarity.
I found trust.
And I hit the shot of my life.
In the background, Izzy—my business partner at MPGA—was standing there watching.
He reminded me of the mentors and friends who’ve gone before me. The people who dared to believe, even when the path wasn’t clear.
And then, on the green, a turtle crawled across.
A quiet reminder to stay present.
To enjoy the little gifts along the way.
To slow down.
This shot was more than just a shot.
It was the beginning of something new.
If you’re facing your own leap right now, here’s a mental performance tip that helped me:
Focus on the target, not the trouble.
Fear loves to scream. But your purpose speaks with clarity.
Tune into it.
And trust your swing.
Your Mental Coach,
— Dr. Mat
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