Maybe you need to walk a different walk.

As i've got older and (hopefully wiser) I've become a great deal more philosophical about many things - including golf.

I now accept a few inescapable truths about myself and my golf game.

I'm good enough at this game to make my way round the course without killing anyone (probably)or embarrassing myself enough to give up. I'm also good enough to bask in the brief glow of a well struck shot. On the other hand, I'm a big enough boy to hit the occasional howler and not shed tears over it. If I'm playing in a fourball and shank it 20 yards into the trees, i'll be the one laughing the loudest.
I'm not good enough to compete for anything more than beer, bragging rights or pocket change.... and that's OK too.

I don't have any real interest in "winning". The only real competitor I face in this game is the course itself and it really doesn't care if I win or lose. So why should I?
Why get my knickers in a twist over scores and handicaps. The course can't count and I get the opportunity to fret over numbers all day at work.

The enjoyment I get from golf is far more esoteric than mere numbers, figures and statistics
.
I'm in it for more selfish reasons. I want to take a gentle walk in beautiful surroundings. I am under no obligation to maintain these surroundings other than to repair any damage I inflict myself. I love freshly mown turf and i love it twice as much when I don't have to cut it.
I get to see wildlife - squirrels and foxes and the occasional shark!.
I get to spend time with some interesting people and engage in "the banter" and perhaps a bit of light refreshment afterwards.
Much of my time spent on the course i'll be alone - a rarity in my life - a chance to relax and reflect on stuff that might be swirling around in my head.

The value that golf has in my life is far in excess of any brief glories of competition.

It grounds me, gives me entertainment, fellow ship, solitude and contemplation.

I consider myself fortunate that I possess the physical, economic and geographical advantages that allow me to enjoy the sport of gentlemen (and ladies of course!)

My swing thought is always the same. "you jammy bast**d!"