Start with a forgiving scorecard

Starting a new sport, or a new anything can be intimidating. By putting ourselves out there to learn something new at any age--that is what keeps the spirit young. I will admit though, it is hard for me to do things and not be great. Add to that the fact that whether you're on the driving range or paired up with strangers, you have an audience for your un-greatness, which makes it even more daunting. So why do we do it? Why do we say, "you know I think i want to sign up for that 5k even though I haven't run in years? " Why are perfectly competent and successful people willing to look like complete idiots for the sake of trying something new? For me, I found it humbling to look like a complete idiot, and realized it was probably good for my soul and my ego to not look cool. I couldn't even fake cool with my coordinated outfit or accessories.

It is the drive to learn more and be better that keeps achievers achieving, or at least trying. It's important to be a beginner, because that means you tried something new. If you're never a beginner, you're not learning anything new. I'm not sure what the statute of limitations is for claiming to be a beginner at golf. I am sure to tell everyone that i'm a beginner and still learning before they witness anything. For people who are used to being successful at everything they try, golf provides an extreme challenge. It is a difficult game, but it offers the opportunity to work on skill, strategy, and patience. . . all while enjoying a beautiful day (hopefully) and pleasant company (preferably).

I am just getting to the point now where I"m not too far off par each hole, and am not ashamed of the number that gets marked on the scorecard. This past year as I've played, my golf mentor/coach/boyfriend, Jimmy, would just put a smiley face or a heart on the holes where I had a ridiculous number of strokes. With golf, you are only playing against yourself, so why be hard on yourself? Show yourself (or your beginning partner) some love and offer them a heart instead of a "9" on a par three hole. It will make them feel loved and encouraged rather than defeated and frustrated.

So, it's memorial day weekend. Are you playing golf? I'm determined to get to the driving range this long weekend. Jimmy is in Scotland golfing 36 holes a day. So the great golfer is getting greater, and the beginner is getting in quality time with girlfriends and a few cocktails.

Happy long weekend to you!