Play Better Golf | Wisdom and a Great Game!
Wisdom
What does WISDOM have to do with the greatest game on earth? Good question. Read the following quote from Nelson Mandela and we’ll discuss.
Travis, Me, Pops and Greg
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine as children do. It’s not just in some of us; it is in everyone. And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
So what do these incredible words have to do with the game we love?
Nobody is afraid or nervous to shoot 130. The butterflies start moving the first time we shoot 79. Or the first time we break 90. Or the first time we shoot even par. It’s the great rounds that get the heart pumping. If you are going to play golf, then you might as well play to the absolute best of your ability. And this pursuit takes mental focus and the ability to overcome fear.
Get on the course and make the best decisions you possible can. Execute to the best of your ability. Then go back and analyze what happened and figure out how to get better. Your fantastic journey to shoot great scores will not only change you but it will change the people around you. I’ve noticed this phenomenon recently with my Dad. About 6 months ago I recommitted myself to establishing a handicap lower than I’ve ever carried before. Guess what? My dad has started to come along with me. He has refocused his game as well. He is out practicing in his free time. We’re constantly discussing what happened on the course and ways to improve. This is right in line with Mandela’s words. “And as we let our own lights shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.”
Many players are reluctant to commit to improving because setting a goal always opens up the door to fail. What if you never break 80? What if you never shoot 72 after telling everyone you were going to? Setting goals and establishing commitments also brings fear into our lives.
You be the one to break down the barrier and lead the way for others to follow. You get past your fears and others will feel compelled to do the same. How many of you have children? Let them watch you pursue greatness on the golf course. If you have chosen to play this wonderful game, then you also have the ability to post great scores. Now don’t start comparing yourself to Tiger and feel like you need to shoot 62. That’s not the point. I’m saying work towards a number you never thought possible. For some that number is 67. For others, the number is 85. Golf is a special game because it challenges all of us equally no matter what our current skill level.
What number will you post before Summer is over? I’ve got mine!
Thanks for checking in today. I hope to see you back soon. And as always, your comments are welcome. Leave a piece of wisdom you’ve picked up along the way for the rest of us to read.
Take Care,
Mike Snyder