Not About Golf: The Life Changing Joy of Playing The Game by Mike Berland

Mike Berland didn’t set out to become a golfer. His early career took him from the bustling streets of Chicago to the high-stress environment of a political polling firm in New York. Burnt out and searching for a reset, he stumbled into golf during a much-needed vacation—and that’s where everything changed. What began as a recreational escape quickly became a personal passion and a path to a more fulfilling life. Not About Golf is Berland’s love letter to the sport that transformed his mindset. This isn’t a technical manual or a guide for perfecting your swing. Instead, it’s an honest, engaging exploration of what golf offers beyond the game itself—community, clarity, connection, and joy. It’s equal parts memoir, myth-buster, and motivational guide. Berland debunks some of golf’s biggest misconceptions: that it’s only for the wealthy, the elite, or the highly skilled. He’s none of those things himself—he’s not a professional, not an instructor, and by his own admission, not even a particularly good golfer. But what he is is passionate. He writes with humor and heart about how golf can enhance your personal life, deepen friendships, strengthen business relationships, and reconnect you with nature and play. One of the book’s most memorable lines—“My worst day of golf with friends is still one of the best days of my life”—perfectly captures the spirit of this read. Berland’s message is clear: golf isn’t about being great; it’s about being present. Not About Golf is ideal for beginners, casual players, or even those who’ve never touched a club but are looking for something new and enriching. It’s a thoughtful, funny, and inspiring invitation to a sport—and lifestyle—that’s more accessible than you think.