The world has become a different place since the COVID-19 crisis began.
In just a few short weeks, we have seen the virus spread indiscriminately around the world forcing us all to live in fear and total uncertainty.
Phrases such as social distancing, 14-day quarantine, and working from home have become commonplace in our society. Our lives have virtually been put on hold as the medical world and political leaders try to figure out how to stop the pandemic.
The only other global emergency that I have experienced in my life was 9/11. It came out of nowhere, also without any warning. It also changed the world, created fear amongst people, and forced us all to put our lives on pause while the world tried to figure out this new threat called terrorism.
2020 will go down as the year our world changed. Change is something that many people have difficulty with because we are all to some degree, creatures of habit. We all prefer to live in a certain comfort zone and when we are forced to step out, have difficulty coping with change.
I have been playing golf for over 50 years and the game has taught me many life lessons. I have always tried to apply these lessons when times get tough and I face challenges in my life.
First realize that much of what happens in life is out of our control. It’s not so much what happens to us on a daily basis, but how we react to what happens.
Patience is not only a virtue, but a necessity at times like this. It is important to slow down and navigate ourselves through unchartered waters. A peaceful calm is just around the corner.
Maintain a positive frame of mind even during times of uncertainty. I prefer a half empty glass to having no glass at all!
In golf, I have learned to respect not only myself but other people. If you are like most people living and working from home, respect time and use it wisely. Respect other people’s space as well as their needs and opinions. Even my wife appreciates when I social distance from her when she needs it!
Maintain hope. “Never say never” is one of my favourite phrases in life.
Establish and maintain a routine. In golf this allows you to maintain your mental focus and prevent distractions that could affect your performance.
Be creative and sharpen your problem-solving skills. Sometimes a different approach or advice from others is all you need.
Adversity is one of the greatest character builders known to both men and women. The old adage, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” is so true in life.
I am confident that this crisis too shall pass. I am looking forward to again being together with other people. I will not take things for granted any more. I will embrace change, change for the better and be prepared to live again in a world that may be new but also normal.
Next Week: Get Ready for The New Golf Season!
Cameron Burechails (Teaching Professional), The Georgian Bay Golf Academy, baygolfacademy@bell.net, or www.baygolfacademy.com.
