Golf can be intimidating when you’re just getting started — the etiquette, the rules, the quiet stares on the first tee. Stepping onto a course for the first time, especially for a full 18 holes on your own, can feel like entering a different world. But every golfer, no matter how confident they look, was once in your shoes. The truth is, golf is about progress, not perfection — and the more you play, the more comfortable you’ll get. Below are some simple tips to help you enjoy your round, play with confidence, and show everyone that you belong out there just as much as anyone else.
Tip #1 - What Tees Should I Play?
One of the easiest ways to make golf more enjoyable is choosing the tees that match your game. Too often, new golfers feel pressured to play from the farthest tees — but distance doesn’t define skill, and it certainly doesn’t define fun. Playing from the right tees lets you reach greens in regulation, stay in rhythm with your group, and focus on learning and improving rather than grinding through long holes.
Tip # 2 - Fixing Divots
Every golfer, no matter their skill level, has a role in keeping the course in great shape. When you take a swing and a piece of turf flies, take a moment to replace or fill your divot. It’s a small gesture that makes a big difference — preserving fairways, keeping greens smooth, and showing respect for the golfers playing behind you. Good habits like this go a long way in earning respect on the course and maintaining the beauty of the game for everyone. Treat the course well, and it’ll treat you well in return.
Tip #3 - Pace Of Play
Mistakes happen in golf — for everyone. The best players in the world make double bogeys too, so don’t beat yourself up when things don’t go as planned. If you’ve reached double bogey on a hole, it’s perfectly fine to pick up your ball, take a deep breath, and move on to the next tee. Doing so helps keep the round fun, keeps you in rhythm with your group, and sets a healthy pace for play. Remember, golf is a long game built on patience, progress, and perspective. The goal isn’t a perfect score — it’s to keep smiling, learning, and enjoying the walk.
Tip # 4 - Yell, FORE!
For any golfer, not every shot will go where you planned — and that’s perfectly okay. Some will slice right, others will hook left, and a few might even find another fairway. When that happens, always yell “FORE!” loud and clear. It’s the universal warning in golf that lets others know a ball is heading their way, giving them time to react or take cover. Beyond safety, it’s also a sign of respect and good etiquette. If your ball lands near another group and you didn’t shout “FORE,” it leaves a bad impression — even if you didn’t mean any harm.
Tip #5 - Have Fun
Golf isn’t easy — not for us regular players, and not even for the pros. But that’s what makes it beautiful. Anyone, at any level, can hit a shot that feels tour-level. So don’t be too hard on yourself when things aren’t clicking. If the driver’s off, grab an iron. If chipping feels shaky, try putting from off the green. Adapt, laugh it off, and remember: the goal isn’t perfection — it’s to have a good time every round.
