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As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, golf is a mental sport. It tests our patience. It can make us hit our breaking points when we’re struggling. So how do you keep motivated when you’re not playing well?

I have played with my fair share of different personalities on the golf course. I’ve played with a guy who threw his clubs when he hit a bad shot. Another guy who would say “This is the worst game of golf I’ve ever played in my life!” EVERY TIME we played together. I’ve also played with a woman who would say out loud before every drive, “Ok Georgina, we’re going to hit this one LONG, STRAIGHT AND BORING!” I could go about all the funny things I’ve seen and heard during a round of golf.

I have to say though, that the golfers who are playing well are mainly out there to have fun. The way I see it, there is never a bad day on the golf course. You’re outside in nature, getting exercise and sun, while bonding with others.

Your score at the end of the round is just one part of the actual experience.

If your frustration about your golf score is keeping you from going out to play more, I have some suggestions to make it better for you.

Keep it Fun

Remember that woman Georgina who I mentioned earlier? She’s an incredible golfer. I think she’s able to stay relaxed by being goofy on the golf course. My brother-in-law is another great example. He has a 6 handicap. He has fun on the golf course and is always cheering others on. His enthusiasm really gets others excited and more relaxed.

If you don’t want to keep score – don’t. I know of a lot of golfers who go out and don’t keep score because it takes the fun out of it. Similarly, you don’t always have to play 18 holes. I want to play 18 every time I go out. My husband on the other hand would rather only play 9. He doesn’t see it as enjoyable to be on the golf course for 4.5 hours. I get that and I don’t pressure him to play 18.

Create Memories

Almost every time my husband and I go on vacation, we bring our golf clubs. It’s always a great experience for us and we could really care less about our score. It’s all about making memories and having fun. Here are a couple of vacation spots we’ve golfed at.

Enjoy the Scenery

A lot of hikers go out to be in nature. It’s replenishing to them. They don’t care about how fast they make it to the top. Think of golfing in this same way. You’re outside enjoying nature while getting exercise. The golf course has been uniquely designed by architects and well maintained by greenskeepers. There is so much beauty to be seen!

Be Willing to Laugh at Yourself

Don’t take life so seriously. Don’t take golf so seriously. Be willing to laugh at yourself. You whiffed the ball? That is funny! You popped it up in the air and only drove it 50 yards? That’s funny too! Be willing to laugh at yourself. If you’re really struggling with your shot, ask someone to watch your swing. Other golfers are usually very willing to help you out if you just ask. Sometimes it’s hard to know what you’re doing wrong, but it’s easy for others to see.

Reward Yourself

Back in high school, my team had a tradition of going to Dairy Queen after tournaments. I’ve kept up that tradition with my husband. It’s a nice refresher to get ice cream after a round on the course. Others like to go to the clubhouse and drink beer after their round. It doesn’t matter what you do, but plan something to look forward to once you’re done. It’s nice to wind down and reflect on the day. And once again, share some laughs!

I would love to know your feedback on this post or an idea for a future post. Thanks for reading.

See you on the links!

Tiffany