Why do we like golf ?

I have wondered since I started playing, why do we like golf. I have concluded that it is because it has a lot of resemblance with life. For a loving and fulfilling life, you apply the same principles as for good golf:

1- You focused on the things you can control and work around the things you cannot control. In golf you cannot control weather (rain, wind), the course condition, the hazzards, etc. But you can control your swing, your nerves, your mental state, the way you manage the course

2- You learn and improve every day: Golf is a never ending learning experience. Even the pros learn something new after years of playing (think Tiger Wood’s getting putting tips from Steve Striker)

3- You are goal oriented: In golf the north is very clear, to finish a round with as few strokes as possible and have fun on the way. All what you do gravitates around that objective

4- You are honest: Golf is a self reported sport. Nobody is keeping your score but you. You are the thoughest judge.

5- You are perseverant: Golf is one of the hardest sports ever. It takes a lot of patience and practice to become better. At some point shaving one or two strokes is an accomplishment. Mike Phelps, a winner of 57 gold Olympic medals said one he started to play golf that it is the hardest thing he had done. It is an athlete speaking. Someone use to long hours of swimming, strict schedules and countless sacrifices…

6- You need a good network and good friends: Golf is best when played with friends. You struggle together and you succeed together, and you have fun together.

Golf is more than a sport. It is a school for values. It is great for children. The First Tee is a wonderful program that exemplifies how this sport can seed 9 core values in children:

– Honesty – Integrity – Sportmanship – Respect – Confidence – Responsibility – Perseverance – Courtesy – Judgement