Standards vs. Rules

How Coach K’s wisdom on standards over rules is shaping my golf team—and my life

Author

Bob Regnerus
August 20, 2025

SPARK Insights™ – Issue #0041

A Big Thank You—and a Call for More

Hey friends,

Thanks again for sharing your cool manifestation stories last week—I’ve loved reading every single one. If you’ve got more to send my way, I’m all ears!

Stepping Into the Golf Season—and Into a Coach K Lesson

As you know, I’ve kicked off my first season as head golf coach. It’s been invigorating, and one inspiration in shaping our team approach came from none other than Duke’s legendary Coach Mike Krzyzewski.

I had the privilege of hearing him speak recently, and one idea struck me deeply: “We had no team rules—but we had team standards.” Instead of telling players what not to do (like rules often do), he set up positive, aspirational expectations—standards that players own, embody, and take pride in.

Rules vs. Standards: A Brief Breakdown

Let’s unpack that:

Rules

Standards

Telling people what not to do (“Don’t be late,” “Don’t check your phone”)

Inviting people into a way of being (“Be present,” “Be positive,” “Be purposeful”)

Restrictive, enforcing, punitive

Empowering, aspirational, self-driven

Compliance-focused (“Do this, or else”)

Culture-building (“This is how we show up together”)

That’s why standards are stronger—they invite ownership.

Our Team’s Three P’s Standards

Here are the three standards I’m introducing with our golf team:

  • Be Present — Fully engaged during practice and matches. (This means no phones, active communication, and true presence for teammates.)

  • Be Positive — Lift yourself, your teammates, and even your opponents. Approach the game—and life—with constructive energy and respect.

  • Be Purposeful — Every action has intention. Practices aren’t just reps; they’re designed to grow better athletes and better people.

These echo the values of our entire athletic program and invite each athlete to choose who they want to be—rather than just follow a rulebook.

Why This Matters (In Life, Not Just Athletics)

Personally, I’ve started applying these standards in daily life. If I can go through my day being present—with intention—being positive, and being purposeful, I believe it’ll end as a great day. And isn’t that worth aiming for?

Over to You

I’d love to hear your thoughts:

  • Do you ever operate by standards rather than rules?

  • Have you found it easier or more powerful to invite people into positive expectations?

  • Any personal “three Ps” or aspirational metrics you find meaningful?

Hit reply and let me know. Your insight always lights me up.

— Coach Reg