36. This is the paradox that is golf, we have to try without trying, want to win without thinking of winning and take care without caring
In a separate lesson I speak about the uniqueness of the physical action that we strive to perfect in order to play the game effectively. In this piece I want to discuss the
Uniqueness of the game itself.
First of all we must at all times remember that the game is Imperfectable. If we play the game with this concept in mind, then that offers what I feel the best chance of playing well.
If you stop trying to conquer the game then we have a chance of getting some competent level of control. On the face of it this seems like a total contradiction but we can see sense in it when we first of all look at what happens to us when we attempt to perfect something that is imperfectable, or try controlling something that does not respond to a controlling mind. When we experience the inevitable failure that this approach serves up, we respond in one of several ways, it may be a feeling of total frustration that can eventually lead to anger or aggression or it may be your wayward shots create a sense of anxiety. You will never play to your best potential if you allow emotions to surface and control your actions. Even excitement can prove disastrous. Many a good round is a lost when we allow ourselves to think we have the game licked.
Our best golf has to be coaxed into our reaches like a wild animal into a cage but the important thing when we have it there is not to slam the door shut in an effort to keep it because it will suddenly, as if by magic, just simply disappear. This is the paradox that is golf, we have to try without trying, want to win without thinking of winning and take care without caring.
