Golf has always been my happy place — that sweet combination of challenge, relaxation, and a bit of friendly competition. It’s where I go to clear my head and enjoy the outdoors. But when I became a parent, I knew things would change. With a toddler (2 years old) and a baby (8 months), the idea of spending five hours on a golf course every weekend felt like a distant dream. Still, I didn’t want to give up the game I love, so I’ve learned to make it work in new ways.

Finding Time to Play
The biggest hurdle? Time. Between diaper changes, nap schedules, and all the daily chaos that comes with raising young kids, it’s hard to carve out a chunk of time for myself. Instead of full 18-hole rounds, I started thinking in smaller doses. I began sneaking out early in the morning for nine holes or playing a quick twilight round if the schedule lined up. Even just hitting a few practice putts in the yard felt like a mini-escape.

Some mornings, I’d be up before dawn, packing my clubs in the car while the world was still quiet. I’d tee off as soon as the course opened, playing nine holes before heading home to help with breakfast and the morning routine. Those early rounds gave me a sense of balance and joy that helped me reset for the day.

Coordinating with My Wife
Since our daughter was born, we haven’t really brought the kids out to the golf course. Let’s face it — it’s a big ask to manage two little ones on a course that’s meant for focus and calm! Instead, my wife and I treat golf as part of our family balance. Sometimes she takes the kids while I play, and other times I stay home so she can have time for herself. It’s all about teamwork, and it helps us both feel supported and appreciated.

Adjusting Expectations
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is that golf doesn’t always have to mean 18 holes with buddies on a Saturday morning. Sometimes it’s a quick nine holes at sunrise, a few putts on the practice green, or even swinging a club in the backyard while the kids nap.

I’ve realized that I don’t have to let go of the game — I just have to let go of my old expectations of what golf “should” look like. Even small sessions keep my swing fresh and let me hold onto that piece of myself that loves the game.

What Golf Teaches Me About Parenting
Golf has taught me a lot about patience, focus, and perseverance — all of which come in handy as a parent. When I slice a drive or miss an easy putt, I remind myself it’s just one shot in a long round. When the kids are fussy or plans fall through, I try to bring that same mindset home: take a breath, reset, and keep going.

Golf is still my escape, but now it’s also a reminder of the importance of finding balance. It helps me model for my kids what it means to have a hobby, to pursue something you love even when life gets busy.

A Message to Other Golf-Loving Parents
To all the parents out there who love golf but feel like it’s slipping away: don’t give up. Adapt, adjust, and find creative ways to keep it part of your life. Whether it’s an early morning round, a quick practice session, or even just watching a tournament on TV, every connection to the game counts.

It’s not always easy, but golf — like parenting — teaches us to be patient, creative, and grateful for the journey. Every swing matters, both on the course and at home.