When I first picked up a golf club, I had no idea what I was getting into.
I didn’t grow up playing.
I came into the game as an adult: curious, intimidated, and totally unprepared for how much I’d fall in love with it.
What started as a hobby quickly became an obsession. And somewhere along the way, golf became more than just a sport. It became a way to reconnect with my family, rebuild confidence, and carve out space I didn’t know I needed.
If you're just starting out or finding your feet, here’s what I wish I knew back then.
1. Not everyone will be happy to see you out there
There are clubs I’ve avoided. Groups I’ve tiptoed past. Looks I’ve ignored.
Golf has come a long way, but some spaces still feel like they weren’t built for you. Especially as a woman who’s new to the game.
That’s exactly why Linksy exists. To help more women feel like they belong on the course, in their gear, and in their game.
2. The beginner phase doesn’t last months. It lasts years.
You don’t just “get it” after 10 rounds. Or 20.
Golf is the slowest, most humbling teacher you’ll ever meet. And that’s okay.
Some days feel amazing. Others feel like you’ve never seen a club before.
Keep playing. Keep showing up. It’s all part of it.
3. There are a billion rules. You only need to know five.
Like:
Don’t bring your bag onto the green or tee box
Don’t talk in someone’s backswing
Fix your pitch marks
Keep pace
Be kind, especially to yourself
Most golfers are just out there for a good time. You don’t need to memorise the rulebook to be welcome.
4. It’s surprisingly good for your mental health
Yes, you’ll have meltdowns on the 8th hole.
Yes, you’ll overthink your takeaway.
And yes, your putter might break your spirit.
But between the trees, the fresh air, the stillness, and the laughs, it’s one of the best things I’ve ever done for my head.
5. You’ll meet people who change your week
Golf friends are different. You’ll spend four hours together talking about life, laughing about triple bogeys, and hyping each other up on the range.
You might start out solo, but you won’t stay that way for long.
6. It’s so hard
There’s no way around it. Golf is difficult. And that’s what makes it addictive.
Every good shot gives you a reason to come back. Every round is a fresh chance to try again.
And when you find the gear that fits you, the people who cheer for you, and the mindset that keeps you going, it becomes more than a game.
7. It connects me to where I come from
My dad played. His parents played. And my grandma Stella was the best of the bunch.
She could outdrive anyone, always played with grit and grace, and golf was her happy place.
When I was born (the youngest of three) my dad stopped playing. Life just got busy.
But when I became obsessed with golf years later, he picked up his clubs again too.
Now we play together, and every round feels like a thread connecting generations.
Even though my grandparents are no longer around, I feel close to them every time I tee it up.
That’s the thing about golf. It keeps memories alive and makes space for new ones too.
Keep Going
If you're in the early stages, keep going. The beginner phase is longer than anyone tells you, but it’s where the magic happens.
Golf will test your patience, teach you more about yourself than you expect, and introduce you to people who change your life. It’s hard. It’s humbling. And it’s also one of the most rewarding things I’ve ever done.
If you ever feel like the course wasn’t made for you, trust me, it is. And we’re so glad you’re here.
Natalie
Founder, Linksy Golf