It’s almost impossible to hear “New Year” and not think about resolutions. As this piece goes live we’re a few weeks into 2023 –  the point at which I usually ask myself, “Wait, what was my resolution again?” I bet some of you can relate. In fact, one study shows that 64% of resolutions are broken by the first week of February, and only about 9-12 % of people keep their resolutions the whole year.  But don’t let these statistics get you down. Wherever you are on your resolution journey (even if you’re not on a “resolution journey”), you’re in luck. I’ve got a New Year’s hack that will improve your life and your golf game. Two big birds, one golf ball. Pretty efficient.

You only have to commit to one thing:

Work on your golf game. That’s it, nothing else required.

Now, you’re probably wondering – how will working on my golf game help me lose weight, eat less sugar, exercise more, drink less, or reduce stress in my life? How does devoting more time to golf help me spend less time on social media, get ahead at work, be more organized, or get out more? 

I know, I’m totally crazy for thinking that dedicated time and effort to the game of golf could possibly help someone accomplish any of those common New Year’s Resolutions.  Even if you sort of see how golf checks many resolution boxes, you might be wondering what “working on your golf game” looks like, and how it could fit into your already busy life.

Plus, I’ll go ahead and address the cold, white elephant outside some of our windows.  Depending on where you live, it might not feel like the best time to hit the range.  As I look out the window of my Wisconsin home office, I hear you.

But I promise… if you focus on your golf game, you can change your life. 

Here’s how: 

  • Read about golf. Please don’t tell me you don’t have time to read – because, newsflash… you’re reading this right now.  You’re off to a great start by checking out all of the fabulous golf resources available on our site. Why not check in every day to read inspirational stories, learn new techniques, research equipment, and get other valuable golf and life advice?  The more you read about golf – whether here or on other sites or magazines – the more versed you become on the game. With this knowledge, you can impress clients, the boss, or dates. Plus, with the valuable information you’ll learn about equipment & techniques, you can save money because you’ll know how and where to spend your golf dollars. Finally, by catching up on your favorite players or checking out beautiful courses around the world, you can get inspired and motivated to play, and even plan golf trips.

Resolution connection: By reading about golf you’re not scrolling on social media and you’re probably reducing stress while you spend time bettering yourself for the future.  Wow your boss and others with your knowledge of the game.

  • Find a way to practice, even if it’s winter. I get it, it might be cold where you live. Or, maybe you’re really busy, live in the sticks, or simply don’t have the cash for extras. Roger that. But, I’m here to remind you that it’s 2023, and we’ve got this thing called Google. Just type “how to practice golf in the off season” for a list of indoor domes, golf simulators, and even courses that offer winter golf. There are also indoor leagues and lessons. In other words, there are plenty of places to practice. If you can’t do any of the above, work on your putting from the comfort of your living room, or simply focus on exercises for golfers and get your body primed for the golf season.  

Resolution Connection: Hands in the air for all of the resolutions you’re nailing – exercise, socialization, less screen time, and learning new skills. You’re essentially winning 2023.

  • Watch YouTube/golf tutorial videos or listen to golf podcasts. Not a reader, and no time to swing a club? No worries, you can still show up at this summer’s annual company outing unafraid to be paired up with the boss. Simply take advantage of the gazillion golf tutorials on YouTube. Pick your poison – pitching, putting, getting out of the sand, conquering mental blocks. No matter the topic, there’s a video.  Reserve time on your calendar for these tutorials. Another option – listen to golf podcasts for golf stories, tips, and inspiration. 

Resolution Connection: Not sure if you noticed, but by setting a designated time each day or week to school yourself on golf, you’re showing how organized and dedicated you are while learning new skills. I’m no expert, but I’d call that a resolution win.

The bottom line? When it comes to resolutions, golf is really the perfect launching pad for success. First, since golf is a game based on integrity, we’re setting ourselves up to be better people right off the bat. Plus, golf requires persistence, effort, and attention. So it only makes sense that as we work to become better golfers, we become better humans as well. I’d call that a Resolution Success that lasts all year long. Cheers to a great 2023!