Mastering Golf with Physical and Mental Handicaps: A Journey of Hope and Passion
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Golf is a game that can bring immense joy and satisfaction, but it can also be a source of frustration and anxiety. For those of us with physical or mental handicaps, those challenges can feel even more daunting. But here's the thing: those challenges don't have to hold us back.
As someone who lives with some physical and mental challenges, multiple sclerosis, and blindness in my left eye, I know all too well how hard it can be to enjoy the game when your body and mind are working against you. But I also know that with the right mindset and approach, it's still possible to find joy and fulfillment on the course.
For me, the golf course is a sanctuary. It's a chance to get outside in the fresh air, get active, and connect with friends and family. It's a chance to be one with nature and forget about the stresses of everyday life, if only for a few hours. And I refuse to let my MS or blindness keep me from that.
Now, don't get me wrong – golf is hard enough as it is. And when you add a handicap into the mix, it can feel downright impossible at times. I struggle with my depth perception, which makes hitting a pure shot harder and judging distance a constant battle. But I've learned to accept that it's okay to have bad shots. It's okay to top the ball or miss a putt because of my vision issues. And I've also learned that it's okay to ask for help and support from those I'm playing with.
If you're struggling with a physical or mental handicap, whether it's MS, blindness, or something else entirely, here are a few things that have helped me keep playing and loving the game and hopefully they can help you:
- Screw what others think: This is a game of personal passion. Everyone is going to have good and bad days. If you're prone to have more bad days than good, that's okay. Are you playing for others or are you playing because you love the sport? Have the right mindset going in and focus on why you are playing.
- Mentally prepare: Know and accept that the game may not be in your favor. Remember to yell “Fore” if needed and maybe say a few cuss words if it will calm your nerves.
- Start small: Rather than jumping straight into the game if that feels overwhelming, try to take small steps towards your goal. For example, if you're nervous about hitting your drives, start by practicing at home, or at the range. There are many products to help you work on the aspects of the game before you perform with others. Our blog is filled with items that we have reviewed and love. These items can help you get better and work on the areas you are scared of. By starting small, you can build your confidence and comfort level gradually.
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Focus on the process, not the outcome: Instead of getting caught up in worrying about how things will turn out, try to focus on the process of what you're doing. Think about the steps you need to take to achieve your goal and try to enjoy the journey rather than just focusing on the destination. This can help take some of the pressure off and make it easier to get started. I do this a lot. When playing a round I usually only try to stick to 9 holes if I can help it, and use each hole to work on certain shots. I also do not skip out when it's hard. For example, I am not very good at using my driver. I do not skip using my driver because I am not good or scared of it. I use it anyway and ask for some help from those I am playing with to get a new perspective on how to better use it.
5- Practice self-compassion: Remember that it's okay to feel scared or nervous and that everyone has fears and doubts sometimes. Instead of beating yourself up for feeling anxious, try to be kind and compassionate towards yourself. Treat yourself like you would treat a friend who was going through the same thing. This can help you feel more relaxed and less self-conscious, making it easier to try new things. This may sound weird to some but it can really help to go in with a mindset of compassion. We all need to give compassion but we all need to receive it too. Doing this for yourself is necessary to keep you doing what you love.
The power of the phrase "Keep doing what you love" cannot be overstated. It may seem like a simple sentiment, but it holds profound truth. As someone who has journeyed through physical and mental handicaps, I have learned that perseverance and determination are key to continuing to pursue your passions. I am certain that others who have faced similar challenges have also discovered this truth. If you feel discouraged, remember that it's okay to keep doing what you love. Don't let your handicaps hinder your pursuits. Instead, find ways to make your life easier and more manageable. While the following items may not be golf-specific, I personally rely on them every time I hit the course, and they may be helpful to you too.
- The first is Frogg Toggs chilling towel
Get yours here:
- Soak this towel in cold water before your round and wear it on your head or neck to keep you cool the entire time. Stays cool for up to 4 hours. This is a game changer for those that cannot need to stay cooler and not over-exert yourself and keep their core temp lower. Perfect for those hot days on those courses with little amount of trees or links courses.
- Iron Flask
Get yours here:
- This is a great water bottle to fill with your drink of choice. Its big enough to keep you hydrated your entire round (40 OZ) and is leak proof. It is made of stainless steel with a double wall to keep your cold stuff colder for longer and your hot stuff hotter for longer. Perfect for your round of golf.
- Chirp Wheel
Get yours here:
- The Chirp wheel is one of the best items I own for back and neck stretching. Although it is not directly related to golf, I highly recommend it because of the pain and pressure relief it provides me before and after a round. Specifically, the smaller two-wheeled version can locate and release tension in my back and neck, resulting in pain relief and improved recovery. As someone who suffers from tension headaches, the Chirp wheel has been a lifesaver. I highly recommend it to any golfer or non-golfer looking for some relief.
In conclusion, physical and mental handicaps can make pursuing our passions challenging, but it does not have to mean the end of the road. We can still find joy in the things we love and continue to improve, even with limitations. The key is to have the right mindset, to focus on what we can do instead of what we can't, and to seek out help and resources to overcome the obstacles we face. Whether it's taking small steps towards our goals, practicing self-compassion, or finding a supportive community, there are ways to keep pushing forward and reignite the passion for what we love. As golfer Ben Hogan once said, "The most important shot in golf is the next one." Similarly, the most important step in pursuing our passions after hardship is the next one. So keep swinging, keep pushing, and never give up hope. With dedication and perseverance, we can overcome any challenge and continue to find fulfillment in the things we love.