How Close Have You Come To Leaving Golf?

At times such as the last couple of years when everything from the overall economy to high fuel prices to weather has seemed to be working against golf, it’s understandable if denizens within the industry have been tempted to say “chuck it” to their current profession.

Yes, you can rhyme “chuck it” a certain way if you want for the true meaning of how we feel about our jobs at times.

That doesn’t say anything about our dedication. As a matter of fact, chances are if you’re reading this blog, you’ve stayed within the golf industry, so you’ve passed the test of passion for your profession.

I admit that there have been times on the media side of what I do that I’ve been tempted to walk away for various reasons, including head-scratching decisions by the powers that be that explain a lot about why media is struggling so much these days.

As a matter of fact, I have walked away from a few, but still elected to stay in a business that offers little in job security, benefits and some of the things that people in other professions take for granted.

I only use that as an example. Through covering golf for so many years, it’s common to hear about challenges facing people, no matter which part of it they operate from in the golf industry.

Certainly, veteran golf professionals have seen roles change over the years from what it was when they first got into the golf industry. Employment opportunities have shrunk and versatility is a key factor in success these days.

I’ve chatted with young golf professionals and they’ve mentioned the frustration of studying and working for low wages for years, but still face an uncertain future despite their dedication.

Golf professionals aren’t the only ones. One would think that owners get frustrated with high taxation, declining participation and the saturation of golf courses in certain parts of this country.

How about superintendents who are expected to maintain premium conditions despite having their budgets cut in the economic downturn of the last couple of years?

Then, there are equipment manufacturers and apparel companies that have been dealing with slower sales.

You get the picture. There are challenges to every profession and sometimes they seem overwhelming, so the GNN Poll for this week asks have you ever come close to leaving the golf industry?

It’s okay to admit it, if you have. As mentioned above, the only thing that matters is, whether you’ve been tempted or have actually left and come back, the most important thing can be summed up in three words.

You’re still here.

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