It’s Friday, and if you’re like me, you’re probably already dreaming of a weekend round. But before we get there, I want to talk about something that often trips us up, both on and off the course: overthinking. We’ve all been there, right? Staring at a tricky putt, replaying swing thoughts, or endlessly researching the “perfect” golf drill. It’s a classic trap, and it’s one that extends far beyond the 18th hole.
I recently read an excellent piece by Jeff, who really hit the nail on the head regarding this very topic. He eloquently described how we often fall into the pitfall of thinking about doing something, rather than actually doing it. This resonated deeply with me, not just as a lifestyle editor, but as someone who’s always looking for ways to enhance my own golf game and overall well-being. It’s about more than just hitting a good shot; it’s about nurturing a proactive, engaged approach to life, too.
Take, for instance, the increasingly popular focus on golf fitness and mobility. I’ve noticed a real surge in golfers, from weekend warriors to aspiring pros, embracing dedicated fitness routines. And that’s fantastic! But how many of us spend hours scrolling through articles, watching YouTube videos, and planning out an elaborate new workout regimen, only to find ourselves still sitting on the couch when it comes time to actually move?
“Thinking about doing something tricks your brain into feeling like you’re making progress.”
Jeff perfectly captures this mental trick. We get that little shot of dopamine, that fleeting satisfaction, just from the idea of being more mobile or fitter. But as he points out, “even though nothing has gotten done.” It’s the golf equivalent of endlessly adjusting your glove and practice swinging without ever stepping up to the ball. And let’s be honest, we’ve all known that person!
The “Talk vs. Walk” Dilemma: Beyond the Green
This isn’t just about golf fitness. It’s about how we approach our healthy eating habits, mastering a new skill, even planning that dream golf trip. How many times have you said, “I’m going to start cooking healthier meals,” “I’m going to learn how to fix that slice,” or “I’m finally going to organize my golf bag”? The intention is there, the research might even be done, but the action sometimes lags behind.
“Saying you’re going to do something is NOT doing it.”
This sentiment, shared through a delightful anecdote about his college-bound son, truly made me smile, and also made me reflect on my own habits. It’s a relatable human struggle. We can easily convince ourselves that the planning is productive, when in reality, it’s a detour from the real work.
When to Deliberate, When to Act
Now, I’m not saying throw caution to the wind. There’s a time and a place for careful consideration. As lifestyle editor, I certainly advocate for thorough research, whether it’s choosing the right golf travel insurance or the perfect outfit for your next ladies’ league event. But Jeff offers a brilliant distinction:
“For BIG, irreversible decisions in life: Take your time and do your due diligence. For minor, reversible decisions: Act fast and adjust based on your results.”
This is where golf and many aspects of our daily lifestyle truly shine. Upgrading your putter, trying a new pre-round stretch, or even experimenting with a different golf shoe brand? These are largely “minor, reversible decisions.” The stakes aren’t incredibly high, and the worst that happens is you learn what doesn’t work, allowing you to quickly pivot and try something else. It’s an iterative process, much like fine-tuning your short game.
Your Actionable Takeaway: Start Small, Start Now
So, how do we apply this to our golf lifestyle? It starts with breaking down that wall of overthinking and stepping into action. Instead of reading another article on golf mobility, try one stretch for five minutes today. Instead of planning your optimal golf fitness routine for next month, do five squats and five lunges right now. Don’t know where to start with improving your swing? Head to the range and hit a bucket of balls, focusing on just one simple thought, and see what happens.
The beauty of golf, and indeed, a well-lived life, is in the doing. It’s in the process, the small adjustments, and the consistent effort. Stop overthinking that new grip, that morning walk before your round, or that healthier meal plan you’ve been contemplating. The path to a better golf game, a more vibrant lifestyle, and a more engaged you, begins when you move from the realm of thought to the realm of action. See you on the first tee, or perhaps, in the gym, actually doing those mobility drills!
