Golfing Comeback: Lessons from a Stressful Junior Year Experience
During my junior year at JMU, I took a May session golfing course purely for credit and a touch of spring ball. I had zero expectations beyond enjoying the fresh air in the Valley, but my final exam with my fellow student Avery added an unexpected layer to the experience. Avery, a dental student with years of experience, was known for his intense standards and high-pressure demeanor on the golf course. This article delves into our final golfing session and the valuable lessons learned.
Introducing Avery
Avery, despite having been playing golf for years and nearing the completion of his undergraduate degree, maintained a remarkably high standard for himself on the course. For Avery, anything less than a perfect swing was a dealbreaker. A miss, a slice, or even a short putt would provoke a fury that bordered on the theatrical. He would curse under his breath, swear loudly, and eventually, his score would skyrocket, often with him expressing sentiments such as, "You stupid son of a bitch!" or "I should never have been born."
Unexpected Calm
Our final exam was approaching, and I was pleasantly surprised to be on track for a B- if I didn't choose to take the course pass/fail. Avery's goal was to be a scratch golfer, but he was falling short. On the 17th hole, with the final exam looming, we were both on the edge, me about to break 110, and Avery about to break 80. I was mortified as he hit a beautiful drive that sailed incredibly far, landing him in the water. I braced for the explosion, fearing collateral damage.
To my surprise, Avery’s emotional intensity dissipated. He remained calm, neither cursing nor losing his composure. Instead of panicking, he hopped out of the cart and marched toward the water with purpose. He was in a zone, every step counting as lead-up to a stroke of brilliance. I could feel the tension in the air, the weight of the moment, and the stark contrast between our two personalities.
Lessons from the Comeback
Reflecting on this experience, several important lessons were imprinted on my mind. Firstly, the nature of golf is inherently forgiving. Even the most skilled players can have a bad shot. Avery’s emotional outburst was unnecessary and counterproductive. Emotions do not improve one's game; they only heighten anxiety and hinder performance.
The second lesson was about managing expectations. Avery’s high standards were admirable, but they also led to immense pressure. It's crucial to have realistic goals and to understand that perfection is unattainable. I learned that I should be more patient and kind to myself on the golf course, focusing on improving my game rather than fretting over each swing.
The third lesson was about finding calmness in the chaos. Avery’s unexpected calm taught me the value of remaining composed under pressure. In golf, and in life, staying centered allows for better decision-making and optimal performance.
Finally, articulating this experience has given me a renewed appreciation for the sport of golf and its capacity to bring out both the best and worst in people. It has become a reminder to approach challenges with grace and a positive mindset.
Conclusion
My golfing session with Avery at the end of my junior year was a pivotal moment in my journey as a golfer. The lessons learned from his unexpected calm and emotional outbursts have stayed with me and continue to shape my approach to the game. Golf is not just about the score but the experiences and lessons it brings. It challenges us, tests our patience, and ultimately, teaches us to find balance and peace in the midst of adversity.