Play Golf with your Children

My son has been bitten by the golf bug and I am so glad.  I enjoy watching him play sports and coached hockey, baseball, and lacrosse teams, but golfing together is a much more rewarding experience.  Let me tell you why.

1. We get to talk to each other: lives have become so hectic; conversations and life lesson time seems to disappear.  I am fortunate to eat dinner with my family each night, however with three children, it is tough to get equal billing.  While I teach the game of golf, we also discuss the game of Life.
2. Gatorade not suds: playing with my friends is about the great courses we play as well as the conversation, but let's face it, who doesn't enjoy a few adult beverages too.
3. Honesty: You don't tell the scorekeeper you shot a 5 when you swung the club 8 times.  Your children notice how you play; teach them the right way (a true life lesson here).
4. Temper, temper: As much as I enjoy playing, golf can be a very frustrating game.  Show your son or daughter that you are a gentleman or lady and can win with grace or lose with honor.
5. Dress for Success: No matter a public or private course, I wear a collared and a nice pair of shorts or pants.  If your child wants to play, he will be willing to dress the part.  
6. Shake Hands: After the last member of the group sinks the final put, everyone looks each other in the eye and shakes hands.
7. You will eventually see your child do something like this and be torn between pride and jealousy.

Get out there and have some fun!

I look forward to your comments.

Best,

Toby

Tough Talks

Manager, boss, parent, coach, friend, or neighbor - difficult conversations are going to happen.  The worst thing to do is to not have them and hope the situation or problem will correct itself; it won't.  

Do not fear the conversation: prepare your facts, figure out how you will deliver the message, set aside time for the conversation, then have it.  Treat the employee, vendor, child, or partner with respect, give them time to respond and give feedback.  Ensure you are both on the same page before the conversation ends.

You may both learn something.

10 Years, Hard Memories

It will be 10 years tomorrow.
If you are blessed with a child or children, hug them tomorrow at breakfast; hard and deeply. There were many that day who we not hugged.
Remember how you felt.
Remember how you wanted to put America first and do anything you could to help your neighbor or a stranger who needed you.
Remember.

Why I Coach Hockey

Coaching hockey is something I deeply love: I not only have great times with my own children, I take great pleasure teaching a skill and watching a child "get it." No matter what sport or activity you choose, take some time and make a difference. Coaches DO make a difference.

Had a great conversation with one of the kids in my Skills clinic today:
"Did you have fun @ the game today?"
"I didn't score a goal."
"If you could only pick one, would you rather score goals or have fun?"
A big smile... "Have fun."
...I guess I am doing something right