WHY Do You Play Golf?

Golf is a sport that captivates people from all walks of life, offering a unique blend of challenge, and personal enjoyment.

While many associate golf with the pursuit of better performance, there are deeper reasons why EVERYDAY GOLFERS engage in this beautiful game. In this blog, we will explore the true reasons, and motivations behind playing golf, and how understanding these reasons can enhance your experience on the course.

Playing golf is about more than just achieving optimal performance. One of the primary reasons why people play golf, regardless of their skill level, is the sheer joy of the game. 

From the satisfying sound of a well-struck ball to the beauty of the course itself, golf offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, challenge yourself, and experience moments of pure bliss. 

It's about embracing the overall experience and finding pleasure in every swing, rather than solely focusing on scores or perfect shots.

For everyday golfers, playing golf is a recreational activity, not a profession. So why do so many golfers get so stressed and treat it like hard work? Golfers will enjoy the game more if they relax and treat it as "play time", and they will probably play better, too!

Understanding your personal purpose for playing golf is crucial in managing your expectations and enhancing your experience. Reflect on why you are drawn to the game and what it brings to your life.

For some, it may be the opportunity to spend quality time with friends and loved ones, to connect with nature, or to seek personal growth and self-improvement. By remembering your purpose, you can align your expectations with the true essence of the game and find greater fulfillment in every round.

The reasons for playing golf can evolve over time, and this has certainly been the case for me. As a young high level amateur, I played for in the pursuit of lowering my handicap below scratch, by shooting under par more often. Then, as an aspiring playing professional, I played in search of victories and financial rewards.

However, today, as a full time golf coach, and present Dad, with a young family, my reasons for playing have changed dramatically. And despite playing nowhere near the high level of golf of my younger years, I actually enjoy the game today, far more than I did then.

Some of my main reasons for playing golf now are:

- Physical exercise. Golf is much easier (compared to other sports) on my ageing body, and despite injuries, and physical limitations, I am still able to play golf. WATCH MY VIDEO ON HOW TO ADAPT YOUR SWING TO YOUR BODY, HERE.

- Time in nature. Playing golf offers a meditative quality for me. The sounds of the birds singing, and trees blowing in the wind, offers some nourishing time away from a busy coaching schedule, and full family life.

- The joy of experimenting with different shots around the greens, and finding inventive ways to get up and down.

- To create a deeper connection with my son as he grows older, through a game that we can both enjoy together, regardless of age or skill level.

- To feel the exhilaration of those two or three pure shots during a round of golf. It's what always keeps me coming back for more!

Take sometime today to write down the REAL reasons you play the game.

And the reasons I COACH GOLF are to help others fulfil their 'WHY' for playing, whatever that might be for them.

While golf is not solely about performance, hitting better golf shots undoubtedly adds to the overall enjoyment of the game. Seeing the ball climb through the air with precision bring as a sense of satisfaction.

Improving our skills allows us to unlock new levels of enjoyment and appreciation for the game, enabling us to navigate the challenges of the course with confidence.

Placing excessive performance expectations on ourselves can lead to unnecessary suffering, anxiety and frustration on the golf course. Golf is inherently difficult, and our natural inclination to focus on negatives can hinder our enjoyment.

Recognising that golf is a journey of continuous learning and accepting occasional setbacks can help alleviate the burden of high expectations. By managing our expectations and adapting a more relaxed approach, we free ourselves to enjoy the game for what it truly is - a challenging yet rewarding, joyful experience.

If you'd like personalised coaching from myself, REMOTELY or IN-PERSON, CLICK HERE to learn how we can work together, and help you create more joy in your own game, whilst cultivating a deeper understanding of why you play.

If you have any questions or comments, please post them below. You can also head over to my YouTube Channel for more FREE tips

Thanks again for checking out my latest blog, and I hope to connect with you soon!