When most golfers think of sand, it comes with an immediately negative connotation. Sand bunkers, waste bunkers, and sand-filled pits of despair are some of the most common hazards on a golf course.

Forbes contributors publish independent expert analyses and insights. I study high performers in sports for lessons in business leadership. Sometimes you have to play on the roughest terrain out there ...

It’s rare that golf surprises me anymore. I’ve had 17 years in the game—junior golf followed by competing in high school, college and now professionally. Although it may take some unexpected turns, ...