Rob Thomas’ Post

View profile for Rob Thomas

Senior Vice President, Software and Chief Commercial Officer at IBM

On traditional Scottish golf courses, the layout often follows a simple pattern: the first nine holes play “out” and the back nine play “in.” These terms originally described the direction of play relative to the clubhouse—starting outward and returning inward. For some reason, I think I’ve always believed/hoped that I would live until 100. So, if this life were a round of golf, I’d say I’m beginning the “back nine.” Just like in golf, the back nine is about learning from the front nine and most importantly, finishing strong. Here are the things I’ll keep in mind on this back nine. Hole 10: Take the Next Shot No matter what happened on the front nine, the next shot is all that matters. Focus forward. Hole 11: Stay Patient The back nine can test endurance. Life, like golf, rewards those who stay calm under pressure. People rarely remember what you’ve done, but often remember how you made them feel (especially when stakes are high). Hole 12: Play My Own Game Comparison is the thief of joy. Focus on strengths, not someone else’s scoreboard. Hole 13: Fix Mistakes In golf, you repair your divots and ball marks. In life, own mistakes, learn, and move on. Hole 14: Enjoy the Walk The views on the back nine are often the best. Pause, look around, and appreciate the journey. Hole 15: Know When to Lay Up Not every shot needs to be heroic. Sometimes, playing it safe is the smartest choice. And, other times, you have to go for it. Either way, have conviction. Hole 16: Ask for Help In golf, a caddie provides guidance. In life, mentors, friends, and family can do the same. Hole 17: Finish What You Start The back nine is where rounds are won or lost. Stay focused and finish strong. Being a lifelong learner is instrumental to finishing anything you start. Hole 18: Celebrate the Round When you walk off the 18th green, what will you remember? Savor the moments that matter most. Enjoy it, regardless of the outcome.

Jimmy Puri

IBM Sr. CS Technical Specialist | Driving Automation | Helping Biz Value Realization | Empowering Customers & Partner Eco System | Leading Women Allyship

2mo

It’s always a pleasure to read what you’re writing, Rob. So much to learn and absorb, and the love for golf and life is just so obvious in your words of wisdom. Keep writing and keep inspiring !

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Steve Canepa

Global Executive | Board Member |Building Trust | Nurturing Talent | Delivering Results | Innovating | Listening, Learning & Leading |

2mo

Rob Thomas Well said. it is this moment and what is in front of you that truly matters. Onward…..

Bea Elbert

Executive Coach and Volunteer, Previous IBM General Manager and Managing Director

2mo

Enjoy and savor the back nine, Rob. Their worth is pretty amazing. :)

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Sanjay Krishna Saxena

Sanjay K Saxena Director (WW IBM SW Licensing & Sales) IBM-Kyndryl Project Office IBM S&A Partial Renewals Project Office IBM Team SAM & Licensing Microsite

2mo

👍

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Shadi Copty

Sr Director Llama Partner Engineering @ Meta | Founder @ Minorio

2mo

Loved hole 12

John Adby

Principal, WW Technical Sales & Business Partner Manager, Programme Director

2mo

What about the 19th hole?

Martin Stummvoll

Digitaler Verkaufsspezialist bei IBM | Business-Coaching, IT-Storage-Infrastruktur

2mo

I love the golf analogy! As I navigate the back nine of my life, I'm reminded of the wisdom of golf. Just like on the course, how I played my first nine holes sets the tone for the rest of the game. Am I ahead, with a comfortable lead, or am I trailing behind, feeling the pressure to catch up? In golf, as in life, it's essential to take each shot at a time. I can't change what happened on the previous hole, and each new shot presents a fresh opportunity to make a great play. Whether I'm ahead or behind, I must focus on the present moment and make the best decision for the next shot. It's easy to get caught up in worrying about the past or stressing about the future, but that's not how we win the game. By taking it one shot at a time, I can stay present, adapt to changing circumstances, and make the most of every opportunity. As I play my back nine, I'm reminded that every shot is a new chance to shine, to learn, and to grow. I'll take a deep breath, focus on the present, and trust that my skills and experience will guide me through the challenges ahead. And don't forget to ask for Help if you are looking for a lost Ball 😊

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If it's a traditional Scottish course then don't forget the 19th. Post match analysis over a drink and regaling tales of your best shots.

Jodi Carruthers

Strategic Growth Executive | Business Transformation Leader | Data and Technology Specialist | Financial Services and Capital Markets | Former Partner, IBM Consulting

2mo

Always a great read Rob.

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