Why do we play?

I’d like to talk this time about your purpose in playing the game. I wrote in a previous article about practicing with a purpose, but before you can practice with a purpose, you need to think about why you play. Let this help you set your goals and expectations. For example, if your schedule only allows you to play golf once a week at best, and you look forward to spending 5 hours with the guys or girls to get away and relax, then set your golf goals accordingly. You’re not going to practice for hours, so expect to hit a few wayward shots, and let relaxation and fun be your focus. You may, however, look at golf as a great personal challenge and want to put in the time and dedication to improve. If this is the case, then build a solid practice routine, play more, be sure you have the right equipment, and go after it. No matter your reason for playing the game, never lose sight of the fact that it is, and will always be just that—a game. By keeping all of these things in perspective, your trips to the course will be all the more rewarding.