By Sean Palmer, Associate Financial Planner in Charleston at Morris Financial Concepts

Avid golfers know that the nature of the game requires patience, positivity, and practice. It represents more than just a game, instead serving as a teacher for a number of valuable life lessons. Read Sean’s take on how golf can impact your life.

For those of you that play golf, I am sure you understand what I mean when I say, “Golf is an interesting game.” The nature of the game is frustrating, yet addicting. Hitting just one good shot out of a hundred bad ones leaves you hooked. Many people new to the game can appreciate how mentally difficult golf can be, and truly understand the feeling of ecstasy when you finally hit the ball where you intended. If you do not already play golf, I strongly encourage you to give it a shot (no pun intended).

There are so many life lessons to be learned through the game of golf, but I will touch on just a few. The first being simply this: “practice makes perfect.” This phrase is something many of us are familiar with, as it has likely been instilled since childhood. Although the word “perfect” is very seldom used by any golfer, it is a lofty standard to strive for. Golf is one of the only games that I have played that demonstrates a direct correlation between the amount you practice and your skill level. The sport doesn’t require unrealistic athletic abilities to thrive, either. To master the sport, all it takes is practice, practice, and more practice.

When I first started playing golf, it took me three years to go from shooting in the hundreds to shooting a 77 in a tournament (no mulligans). Through years of practice and being hurried along the course by my grandpa, I was able to strengthen my skill set. I don’t say this to show off – well, maybe a little. I tell you this story to motivate you, especially if you have never played. Try to learn how to love the process of getting better, whatever it is that you do. The feeling of accomplishment after working towards your goals, and seeing your own improvement, is extremely rewarding.

In addition to practice and patience, golf strengthens the ability to handle your emotions. If you let your emotions take over, especially after a frustrating shot, rest assured your whole round will be ruined. Once you hit the ball, whether good or bad, your focus should be on the next shot. It’s okay to get down after a bad shot, but avoid getting stuck thinking about what you should have done, or worse, wishing for a do-over. Keep your eyes on the prize, and focus on the next steps. Golf teaches you to see the big picture while building mental resilience. This mindset can be applied to any situation in your life. One shot might not hold much importance, but if you can pick yourself back up after a bad shot, you will do great things! Make an effort to find things that frustrate or upset you and try to learn from it. Find a way to let the negativity go, and turn your focus on what is next. There is a lot more golf to play, just like there is a lot more life to live.

I hope some of you will read this and feel encouraged to try something new. For those of you reading that already play golf, I hope this gives you a new perspective on the game and helps you improve. And, if any of you are looking for someone to play golf with, you know where to find me!

Although it takes patience, dedication, and responsibility, you can become a great golfer. These valuable skills can translate into many other areas of your life, especially when it comes to managing your finances. Get started on the path to success today with our Charleston, SC financial planners who are dedicated to helping you achieve your financial goals.

About the Author

Sean Palmer is a Charleston Financial Planner with Morris Financial Concepts. After learning that he could combine his passion for finance with his strong desire to help others, Sean knew that financial planning was going to be a fulfilling career for him. Sean enjoys traveling, exploring his new home, golfing, photography, and spending time with his family.