and being conscious of others is the first vital step to becoming the perfect playing partner. Here are some long-standing observations of what is required to be the best possible partner on the golf course. Hit a bad shot, curse yourself, and move on, don’t let it dwell, as that will ruin the leisure time of your playing partners. The pathologically angry golfer is the one we should be determined to avoid. Good Humor Even the greatest golfers in history have been made to look foolish during a round, never mind the rest of us, who just aren’t very good. The overwhelming majority of players will routinely make stupid mistakes and hit unforgivably bad shots - but it doesn’t mean anything, it doesn’t really matter. Sharing the undoubted ridiculousness golf provides can be a joy with the right person, who will relish in the good moments, but also laugh when things go wrong. Being able to poke fun at that shank, duffed chip, or missed putt is another key step to be the perfect playing partner. Consequently, there’s a lot of humor to my rounds. Even Temper There’s nothing worse than putting up with a temperamental personality constantly throwing clubs and blaming everyone and everything for their poor play. There is nothing wrong with expressing frustration, or even uttering the odd swear word, after hitting a bad shot. However, when that becomes the prevailing personality of the round, there is a problem. Pace of Play There are three categories of pace on the course - slow, fast, relaxed. Waiting on every hole, is frustrating, but one shouldn’t feel rushed either. The ideal playing partner plays at a reasonable pace, but leaves room for conversation and the enjoyment of the surroundings. A round of golf should marinate.
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