Over the past decades that I have worked with golfers, I always ask the question; why do you play golf? The general answers I receive usually include:
- the challenge of the game
- because I am good at it, or want to improve
- to enjoy the game with friends – the sociability
- the scenery, being outdoors, the exercise.
While these are all good reasons, they usually get lost in the 4-5 hours of a round of golf and fears of not performing well surface instead. Rarely do I hear the number one reason for amateurs and professionals which is to have FUN.
I was reminded of this yesterday when I played with a gal who gave me a running analysis and judgment of each of her shots. Nothing was good enough. Eventually this kind of thinking led to a couple of “blow up” holes. Expectation, perfectionism and ego satisfaction dominated.
From the beginning it has always been my purpose to show golfers how to have
FUN playing the game of golf. Once this intention is sidetracked the ego takes over.
If golf isn’t fun, it will be a struggle.
Get out of your own way on the golf course
You have heard that golf is a metaphor for life. The way you play reflects the way you live. When you lose your focus, you become self-centered and forget about enjoying the game.
Happiness is a journey, not a destination.
The best state of mind/body for competing is the attitude of going out and having a good time. This will give you a feeling of being loose and free. When fun, not score is the desired outcome, it won’t matter what the score is, and more than likely the score will be a good one.
Golf has always been a game that we play. The media tells us constantly how difficult a game it is. The word golf is a noun in our vocabulary. The media is now using it as a verb or adverb as “we golf” or “we go golfing” which gives it a different belief.
When you talk or think about golf, think about playing and enjoying the game, not as trying to control the outcome by “golfing” your ball.
Play “In the Zone” with Joan
Entrain Your Heart & Mind for Peak Performances
To learn how to relax and have fun while playing golf, email Joan at pmi4@bellsouth.net for a complimentary 15-minute consultation.
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