Decision making’s a stressful business

The past few weeks I’ve discussed educational opportunities available locally for budding young golfers or enthusiasts wishing to join the golf industry, and how to become a PGA professional.

Following numerous conversations this week with my industry peers, it has been interesting to learn that not only is there a lot of interest in the PGA qualification here, but equally there is tremendous amount of interest among low-handicapped teens in mixing higher education with first-class golf tuition in pursuit of greater things within the game.

There are leading institutions around the world that offer the very best in golf scholarships, and which become exceptionally attractive propositions to youngsters wishing to see the world.

So which is the right way to go? The PGA qualification, a route through the minor tours or a scholarship?

Not only is being a teenager at 17-18 difficult enough, but when faced with what is perhaps the most important decision of their lives, about something that is a passion, then it all spells "STRESS"!

I have been asked my advice a number of times over my time in Dubai, and more so in recent years. The simple first question is: what do you aspire to be? Do you want to be a player? If the answer is yes, and you want to aim for the elite tours, then you have to ask yourself some frank questions, and it helps if you’re truthful with the answers.

Take a very close look at your playing record: what tournaments have you won and what was the strength of the field? Look at your playing statistics and analyse them against players struggling to make their cards on tour – those around 150th.

If you have any doubts at all about your ability, and I mean any, then my recommendation is to pursue a "safety net" approach by ensuring you jointly focus on education and game development so you have something to fall back on. In this scenario a scholarship would be a good move.

If like me, your ambition was to work within and develop the golf industry then pursue the PGA qualification as a stepping stone.

Whatever your chosen career path, I would always advise that you consult a PGA professional who’s close to your game, knows your personality and whom you can trust to give their honest opinion.

Sometimes circumstance will play a large role in the decision-making process and certainly there is the financial element.

If you are contemplating a career in golf and need independent advice I am more than happy to offer my services via jdanby@dubaigolf.com.

At this stage of your life you need a mentor to support your decision and there is certainly no better place to start looking than to your own parents.