It’s no secret perseverance is key to achieving your goals. Even the most successful individuals face their share of defeat – it is part of the journey in reaching goals. One of the most valuable lessons youth can learn in their pursuit of success is to learn how to react to failure and to persevere.
to persist in an idea, purpose or task despite obstacles
To succeed in golf, players must continue through bad breaks and their own mistakes, while learning from past experiences.
In golf, players come across hazards, which stand in the way of the pin. Life is the same way – obstacles stand in the way of our goals. Whether you hit your golf ball into the water or didn’t get the test scores you wanted in school, use these steps to drive yourself beyond failure.
4 Steps for Responding to Failure
The 4Rs can help you stay cool and control yourself in anything you do; in golf, other sports, at home, at work or school.
Step 1 Replay
Think about what you
did and what you wanted to
do. Did your expectations match your actions? If they do, then take a second to enjoy what you did well and store it in your memory. If you didn’t achieve what you desired, move to the next step.
Sept 2 Relax
Feel yourself taking a deep breath, with a slow exhale. The more frazzled or upset you are after a fumble, the more likely you are to make another mistake. Make sure you are calm before moving forward.
Step 3 Ready
Think about what you will do differently next time. Say to yourself, “Next time I will …” and decide what your action would be in that situation.
Step 4 Redo
Imagine yourself doing it better. You can also take a physical practice swing or stroke that matches what you imagine. Visualize the success you desire and keep going.
THE FIRST TEE – IT’S MORE THAN A GAME
At The First Tee, we use golf to teach youth from all backgrounds life lessons and leadership skills—and you don’t have to come with any golf experience! The First Tee helps youth become good golfers and even better people.
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