For me, the golf swing is a metaphor for life. I’ve been told my golf swing is like a snowflake – no two swings are ever alike. Pretty funny, I know, but sometimes during a round it feels like a true statement.
So why do I say the golf swing (particularly my golf swing) is a metaphor for life? Actually there are various reasons…
As in life, you need to be relaxed, enjoy what you’re doing, don’t try too hard, stress out, or put extra pressure on yourself. At work or on the golf course, being on a team, or a foursome who are encouraging, helpful and enjoyable is a good start to your day or round.
As in life, you need to understand the fundamentals, continually gain knowledge, and put into practice what you learn.
As in life, you should be focused, consistent and understand the difference between right and wrong. You have to know what you are doing wrong and correct it to be successful. I’ve watched people on the driving range make the same mistakes over and over and wonder why they top the ball, slice the ball or hit sharp duck-hooks.
Don Shula, former Super Bowl winning coach for the Miami Dolphins used the term “practice perfection.” He believed if you practiced what you wanted to accomplish during the game you would be ready for anything. You would then react without fear or trepidation.
That same principle applies to the golf swing. Being consistent with your swing allows you to be ready for any situation – regardless of where your ball may lie. If you can stay awake while watching golf on TV, you’ll notice the pros have consistent, panic free swings. It doesn’t matter if they’re in the fairway, the rough, or the bunker.
As in life, you must believe in yourself and trust your judgement. Not trusting my swing, or believing I could make a shot, has cost me countless times. Henry Ford once said “If you think you can or you think you can’t – you’re right.” As in life or swinging the golf club – you must believe in yourself.
I recall with fondness, a mentee who had struggled to get their college degree in their 20’s. Soon their 20’s became their 30’s and they went from single to married with children. It would have been easy to settle – after all raising children is as noble of a profession as there is today. But this person believed in themselves. They put together a plan and a goal and focused on achieving their goal. I know it wasn’t easy, but that belief in one’s ability can overcome many hurdles, challenges and obstacles. Not only did they receive their college degree, they went on to achieve an advance degree in their chosen field.
Now, when I’m faced with a downhill lie, a ball situated under the lip of a yawning pot bunker, or a long fairway wood over a expansive body of water I should remember that mentee. I should select the club, relax and remember the mentee who trusted their ability and accomplished their cherished goal. In comparison, trusting my swing should be an easy task.
I guarantee your life (and my golf swing) will continue to improve if you believe in yourself and keep swinging with joy in your heart and a smile on your face.
Until next time….