The Road to 40: Weeks 10 & 11 update

Let’s talk about work for a minute. I’m incredibly lucky to do what I do and to work with some amazing people—but sometimes, it definitely gets in the way of golf. (Totally kidding… mostly.) Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., work comes first. Some days run long, which usually means I can log off a little earlier on others. Last week and the first half of this week were especially busy as we worked toward a program launch, so most of my time and mental energy was spent getting everything across the finish line. As a result, golf took a bit of a back seat.

That said, I did manage to get a couple of league rounds in over the last two weeks. This week was unbelievably windy, and all things considered, I was happy to walk away at five over—shank and all. I also had a really solid practice session yesterday and think I finally pinpointed why so many shots have been starting too far right. Turns out my trail hand wasn’t in the right position, which left the clubface wide open. Once I made that adjustment, everything started to feel much better.

Now the focus shifts to managing my draw—it’s creeping into hook territory more often than I’d like, so that’s clearly the next thing to dial in.

One area that’s taken a step back lately is my short game, especially chipping. I’ve spent so much time focusing on my full swing that chipping—once a real strength—has slipped a bit. That’s on me, and it’s a good reminder that balance matters. Going forward, I’m committing to at least one afternoon or evening each week dedicated solely to short-game work on the practice green.

When I started this journey to lower my handicap, I thought it might come a little easier. I probably should’ve known better. Nothing worthwhile ever really is. But the challenge is part of what makes it rewarding, and it’ll make the progress that much sweeter when it comes.

I’m going to get there. Maybe not on the exact timeline I originally hoped for—but I know I will.

Until next week.

Fairways and greens, y’all.