Darrin Donnelly
Sep 9, 2026
I’ve spent my adult life studying what makes the difference between those who achieve at a high level from those who don’t. It’s a topic that has always fascinated me.
Is it luck? Is it genetics? Is it work ethic?
Certainly, those factors all play an important role.
But are they the true “difference makers” when it comes to success?
LUCK
Life has taught me that, for most of us, good and bad luck tends to even out in the long run.
I agree with Barry Switzer, who said, “Some people are born on third base and go through life thinking they hit a triple.”
Some people do have a lot more luck than others at the starting gate. No doubt about that. [continue reading…]
Darrin Donnelly
Jun 3, 2026
Summertime is here.
It’s that time of year to enjoy road trips with the family, sunshine by the pool, and afternoons at the ballpark.
It’s also a great time of year to do some reading. Ideally, outdoors with a cold beverage nearby.
As we kick off the summer months, I have three book recommendations for you.
The Latest from Sports for the Soul
I wouldn’t be doing my job if I didn’t first recommend my latest book in the Sports for the Soul series, THE MENTAL SHIFT.
This inspirational golf novel follows a PGA Tour player as he tries to make an improbable comeback after a freak accident. It culminates at the U.S. Open, which just so happens to take place on Father’s Day Weekend every year.
In other words, not only is this inspirational read ideal for the summer months, but it also makes a great Father’s Day gift for the dads in your life. [continue reading…]
Darrin Donnelly
Apr 29, 2026
I’ve got some exciting news to share.
A few weeks ago, I met with Brian Johnson to discuss some future projects.
Brian is the founder of Heroic and the man behind the hugely-popular Philosopher’s Notes.
For those who don’t know, Philosopher’s Notes are Brian’s personal summaries of the best books ever written on mindset, performance, leadership, and purpose.
Each note is a six-page PDF summary and a 20-minute audio breakdown of the most powerful ideas in each book. They are meant to save you a ton of time while also introducing you to life-changing books, studies, and success strategies you may not have been aware of.
Philosopher’s Notes have become essential daily resources for some of the top coaches, athletes, and leaders in the world. [continue reading…]
Darrin Donnelly
Mar 25, 2026
My new book, THE MENTAL SHIFT, is out now and the initial reader reviews have started showing up on Amazon.
I wanted to share a few quick snippets of what readers are saying about it…
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Donnelly’s Best Yet
…
I’ve read all of Darrin Donnelly’s books and this is my new favorite!
…
This book addressed some serious doubts I had during tough times and got me back on track! Go read this one now!”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ “Golfer or non-golfer, you will LOVE this book!!
…
I read it in a few days & it was SO GOOD and SO VERY HELPFUL to me!! I give this the HIGHEST rating!” [continue reading…]
Darrin Donnelly
Mar 12, 2026
“The real test in life, as in golf, is not in keeping out of the rough but in getting out after we’ve hit one in the tall grass. Championships, in games and in life, are won by those who have learned to cope with adversity.”
– OG MANDINO
I want to thank everyone who has already picked up a copy of my new book, THE MENTAL SHIFT, and especially those who have already posted the first five-star reviews about the book. (See what initial readers are saying about THE MENTAL SHIFT here.)
I can’t thank you all enough for your support!
For those of you who have not yet read THE MENTAL SHIFT, what follows is the book’s introduction. This gives more insight into what the book is about and reveals why I think this just may be the most impactful book I have ever written…
We’ve all been there.
You’re cruising through life. You’re feeling good, working hard, and staying positive. You’re on a winning streak, hitting nothing but fairways and greens. It seems like everything is going your way. You’ve got it all figured out.
Then, you suddenly get blindsided by adversity. [continue reading…]
Darrin Donnelly
Feb 27, 2026
I’m excited to announce that the latest book in the Sports for the Soul series is available now!
It’s called, The Mental Shift: Control Your Thoughts, Control Your Destiny, and I can’t wait to hear what you think of it!
WHAT IS THIS BOOK ABOUT?
Sometimes in life, you can be doing everything right—working hard, staying positive, feeling confident—when suddenly something happens that knocks you off course. [continue reading…]
