The most difficult part of any endeavor is the beginning – taking the first step. This is true whether it be for business, personal or social activities. Taking the fear out of whatever it is you need to do is as simple as setting up a plan in bite-sized pieces.
Let’s do that for the game of golf. This is primarily useful for the true beginner but if you have been away from the game of golf for a while and need to ‘refresh’ your game or just want to try to rid yourself of some golf demons, here is what I suggest you think about doing.
- SET YOUR EXPECTATIONS! Decide why you are taking up or continuing to play the game. Whether for business networking or social interaction you should be having FUN!! If you think you are heading for the LPGA or any other tour then go ahead and get serious. Otherwise keep things in perspective. Nobody likes an ill-behaved golfer. If you can’t (or won’t have fun….then stay home!). Check your ‘tude at the ‘door’
- LEARN THE BASICS of GOLF ETIQUETTE. I believe that every golfer every season should have to pass a Golf Etiquette test before being allowed to play anywhere!! It is not hard to find a good resource for these golden nuggets of wisdom. In fact, I will be adding that information to this blog in the very near future. You will be heads and shoulders above most average golfers just by taking the time to learn the ‘courtesies’ of the game.
- CHOOSE A QUALIFIED GOLF PROFESSIONAL. Please try to avoid well-meaning friends and family (especially spouses) unless you don’t care if you ever speak to them again. You have the right to choose a pro based on how he/she makes you feel and how he/she relates to your natural (or unnatural) abilities. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or ask to speak with others that he/she has taught. Personality match-up is important…kind of like the ‘dating game’. If you don’t relate to your instructor you are going to suffer and perhaps quit before you even get started.
- TAKE SOME LESSONS either private or in a group. Again, your comfort level should dictate which way to go. If you like more individual attention then private lessons will be your thing. Otherwise there is value in group lessons. They can stretch the dollar in today’s economy and they allow you to watch others while you too are learning. Imitation is a great learning tool. Learning the basics is THE way to go regardless of what you are trying to accomplish.
- LEARN BASIC TERMINOLOGY. In fact, a good golf pro will typically have a sheet of some basic terms for you to take with you. I wouldn’t worry too much about the rules of the game at this point. If you have taken to heart point #2 and know the nuances of Golf Etiquette that and some elementary golf terms that will serve you best at this stage. Feel free to read my Irreverent Golf Glossary posts for a head start.
- PRACTICE, practice, practice on the driving range and putting green NOT the golf course. The golf course is designed for play not practice. Just ask Natalie Gulbis. She’ll tell you. Once you get to a point where you want to test yourself move on to #7.
- PLAY on the Golf Course. When ready to play and try out what you have learned why not start on a Par 3 course? This type of course will be a great starting point as it is shorter and not quite as intimidating since this is where most ‘newbies’ start (or at least this is where they SHOULD start) playing. If you are ‘refreshing’ your game, playing a Par 3 course will help you develop your iron play and short game, two very important elements in playing well.
Natalie Gulbis
Everyone has their own opinion as to how to take up the game of golf. There really isn’t a one-size-fits-all method but if you seriously consider the steps suggested above I am sure you will be much more comfortable and last longer in the insane world of golf. My wish for you is that you fall in love with the game as I have and learn its value as a wonderful escape, a phenomenal networking tool and a way to just enjoy yourself surrounded by the wonders of nature.
As always, thanks for visiting Ladies on the Tee Golf Blog at www.sherrytabb.com. Your comments and participation are welcome and encouraged.
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Tags: business golf, driving range, game of golf, golf, golf courses, golf etiquette, golf lessons, golf pro, golf terminology, golf terms, ladies on the tee golf blog, Natalie Gulbis, Networking with Golf, Par 3, practice green, sherry tabb, www.sherrytabb.com
Excellent advice Sherry!
Expectations are so often out of proportion probably because the game looks so darn easy. And Etiquette; few seem to realize that it’s the key to being able to get out on the course. and that once one possesses it (and know the more important terms) one can play comfortably with virtually anyone no matter your level. The right Pro, Lessons, Practice routine for YOU spot-on. It’s not a one-size-fits-all learning process. And Par 3 courses? Anyone interested in growing this game should be evangelizing them. One thing I would add: Watch the LPGA (and other tours)and get to know the player. It adds so much to the enjoyment of the game AND you learn a lot. (just make sure you keep reminding yourself that it’s not nearly as easy as they make it look!)
I love your blog!
GolfGirl’s last blog post..The Rapidly Changing Golf Media Landscape – II
Golf Girl,
Great suggestion about following the golf tours and getting to know the players and the game. Whether it’s the LPGA, The Duramed FUTURES Tour for women’s golf or PGA, Nationwide etc for the men’s game it really helps to visualize and more importantly listen to and learn the terms and strategies of the game.
Thanks for your support!
Sherry
I just wanted to say that as a new subscriber, I am absolutely loving your blog! My first golf lesson was last week, my 2nd is tomorrow and frankly, I can’t get enough!
Jonna’s last blog post..Golf Is Good (My first Lesson)
Jonna,
Welcome!! Glad to hear you have become part of the ‘insane’ group of golf lovers.
Thanks for the kind words about the blog. If there are any topics you would like to have discussed just let me know. Don’t forget to spread the word!!
Sherry