by Michael Riggs
When I was a child, my mom used to say to me, “Michael, patience is a virtue.” I guess that she saw something that I hadn’t. I wanted things to happen NOW. Whether it was standing in line at the grocery store, arriving at our family vacation destination, or wanting to get out of a batting slump in Jr. baseball. I was ready for change… NOW! I had to learn, and am still learning, that change takes time. And, the more patience that is exhibited in the process of change, the speed of that change occurring, paradoxically, increases.
With the invent of immediate downloads, lightning quick computers, fast food drive-thrus, and instant communications, we have all been conditioned to expect things NOW! While an immediate hot burger or download may make our lives better, these same NOW expectations within the game of golf are counter-productive. Especially, when our expectations relate to change.
Golf is a game of patience.
A change of swing, grip, address, attitude, practice technique, self-talk, and the like, take time. Sometimes, a reeeaaal looonnnggg time. The stages of change, from recognition of the need to change, to the planning of the process of change, to committing to the process, to the execution of practicing the change, to actual performance with the new technique takes time… and patience.
So, if you are the sort that needs things yesterday, it would be a great idea to change your thinking about your golf game. When change is necessary for improvement, be patient with yourself and allow the change to happen slowly, decisively, and deliberately. In this manner, the change will be lasting and permanent. Plus, you will enjoy the ride more – not wish it were over.
S² Tip
Be patient when it comes to making change. Never stop working, but allow adequate time to make the change.
In Another’s Words…
“Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself. Do not lose courage in considering your own imperfections, but instantly set about remedying them – every day begin with the task anew.”
– St. Francis de Sales