Yes, it’s that time of year again. It’s time to make those new year’s resolutions (you know, the ones you broke by February 2nd last year). Now these “victory vows” for the non-golfer can positively change your health, your wealth, and your love life. Why not give them a try?
By Lee Reeves
Resolve to get healthy and stay healthy.
This one comes first because it can benefit you most. You can’t expect to look well when you don’t feel well. Sensible eating, regular exercise, and less stress goes a long way toward improving your look and your outlook on life. One good way to both exercise and “de-stress” is to learn to play golf–for yourself. This is a great way to unwind after a busy day or hard week. Still angry from Friday’s board meeting? Take it out on a bucket of balls! Have some self-discipline, and make yourself hit the driving range and/or the course at least once per week. Within a few short weeks, you’ll see great benefits.
Resolve to really learn the game of golf–this time.
Whether or not you want to play the game, at least learn the basics. Believe me, nothing is more frustrating than trying to carry on a relationship with a golfer when you don’t have the slightest bit of knowledge or interest in the game. And don’t you believe that hogwash about living off love. Honey, the sparks will die down in a golfer’s love life, but passion for the game is forever!
Resolve to enjoy your golfing partner more.
Obviously, you were attracted to your partner for many reasons at first. Now is a good time to recall them. Good conversationalist? Find time to talk. Good dancer? Set a date to par-tay. Good lover? Well…get my drift? Maximize the time you spend together. Have fun and enjoy each other, but don’t purposely neglect his interest in golf. Pretending golf doesn’t exist will only make it go away until the next game. Another word of caution: do not force him to choose between you and golf. You might lose.
Resolve to get out on the course at least three times this year.
Walking a golf course can bring you as much or more enjoyment than it does to your golfing partner. Mother Nature is alive and well, and you can see her beauty manifested in lush greens, thick trees, rushing water, and singing birds. You can catch up on your favorite book or magazine while riding along in the cart, be the designated chauffeur, or stretch your legs and walk. It’s a great opportunity to relax and enjoy some quiet time outdoors as you watch the one you love enjoy his favorite pastime.
Resolve to go along on two golfing trips–without complaining.
With a little planning, a golfing trip can be just as much fun for you as it is for your partner. Ask your travel agent or visit your local library or bookstore for information about your destination. The hotel should have tour data, and you can always get a car and a map and explore on your own. If you’re room-bound, pull out your favorite reading material, start an afghan, or catch up on your letter-writing.
Resolve to find a hobby to (happily) occupy your time while your partner golfs.
Ideally, you could take up the sport, and the two of you could enjoy the game together. But if golf is absolutely not to your liking, find something else that is. Take up another sport, or learn to paint. Enroll in a music appreciation class, or volunteer time reading stories to hospitalized children. Above all, don’t sit around and stew. Too much idle time on your hands can lead to mischief. You may quickly grow to resent his love of golf, and eventually, you will resent him. Whatever hobby you decide upon, make sure it is something you have a passion for so it benefits both you and your partner.
Resolve to actually attend the annual golf awards banquet.
Admittedly, this is a tough one. But if you have kept resolutions #1 and #2, it’s a piece of cake. Awards ceremonies are usually held in December when clubs dole out trophies and kudos for the year’s past endeavors. That’s 11 months from now–you should know enough golf by then to join in any conversation. (By the way, if you broke the first two resolutions, you can always bunch with the same “you-poor-dear-they-dragged-me-along-again-this-year-too” crowd.)
Resolve to look the other way when he comes home with new stuff.
This could be one in your favor! How many times have you hidden a new purchase in the back closet, only to bring it out months later and say, “This old thing? I’ve had it for months!” Or have you ever given your partner the benefit of the word, knowing the day will come when he has to cut you some slack? Think smart. He wants to buy shoes? Let him! Bag and balls? Tell him to go for it. A new outfit? Compliment him on his taste. Then, when it’s your turn, go do your thing and expect not to hear a mumbling word from the peanut gallery.
Resolve to host a dinner party after rounds for his buddies.
Okay, I’m dreaming. Never mind.