Tuesday, August 21, 2007

A New Positive Golf Inspiring Story ---

We thought that mid-August was a great time to share this story before the main character goes back to school. She has been a source of pleasantry and positivity throughout the summer at the golf club where she works. We think she is an excellent example of a confident, joyful, and satisfied golfer who consistently practices and plays with a Positive Golf approach that leads to a total enjoyment of the game for her and those around her. She leaves the course well-pleased that she gave it her best, regardless of the outcome, and that is a true sign of self-respect and golf success. You too can find that her ideas and attitudes can be helpful both on and off the course...

Davana Kessler is studying professional golf management at Methodist University. This summer, she is an intern in the Pro Shop at a country club in southwestern Pennsylvania. In previous summers, she interned at golf clubs in eastern Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Davana began playing golf as a youngster and started taking it seriously around age 12. Along the way, she received a lot of support and encouragement from her father who helped to nurture a sense of confidence. She was also encouraged by her grandfather who started playing golf when he was 60 and continued into his 70s. His can-do attitude inspired Davana, and she has adopted it in her own approach to golf. Her bright, cheerful and positive demeanor is also an integral part of her approach to golf (and life) as well, and we think she is a marvelous example of a Positive Golfer. Not surprisingly, she is more than happy to pass along tips and attitudes to help others enjoy positive golfing experiences.

One of Davana's positive practices on the course is to always remember the joy of the game, even when she hits errant shots. To help with this, Davana always tells herself to "have fun." "I take it shot by shot," she says. "When I hit a bad shot, I have learned to not get frustrated and hang on to it. I smile and let it go and move on. I have worked to consistently use this approach and it really makes a difference." Davana also encourages herself to "relax" as part of her positive game approach. This helps to minimize tension and keep her motion smooth. Another practice she consistently follows is to focus on one thing when she plays, like one swing thought or feeling. This prevents a sense of being overwhelmed and the negative thoughts that can go with that, and it helps her concentration. "I recognize the tendency for my mind to wander," she says, "so I have made it a habit to focus on one key thing in each round."

Davana is an excellent putter, and she attributes that to her positive mental practices. "I really believe in my putting ability," she says. "I feel confident, and I go for the hole. I don't hold back." Along with that, she makes a point to relax and allow her stroke to flow. She actually looks forward to putts and doesn't dread them like some players.

When asked what advice she would like to pass along to help others cultivate a positive game, Davana offers this: "People need to believe in themselves and their abilities. Don't have doubt in the back of your mind - it's going to show up in some way in your game." These are the kind of positive thoughts and habits that Davana practices regularly, and it shows up in her game in many positive ways. Above all, she thoroughly enjoys herself on the course, she plays with confidence and enthusiasm, and her positivity catches on as an enjoyable experience for those playing with her as well. Now that is great golf!

Thanks to Davana for her great example. Here's to great golf for all!

Rick Semple
Positive Golfer
Co-Founder, TheHeartofGolf.com
http://www.TheHeartofGolf.com

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