You need a few things to be a successful player

You need a few things to be a successful player: I usually state a number but I always think of something else so if I say “you need 3 things” it turns out to be 4 or 5, then I have to go back and change the beginning. So we’ll just leave it open ended and talk about some of the things you need, realizing that whatever I list is probably not all inclusive.
 
First, you need dedication. Without it, the game and the quest for mastery is too frustrating and disappointing. You could write a book about it, but the bottom line is you better have or the game will beat you into submission.
 
You need either talent, physical ability, or intelligence and will. Of course, all four would do. See Tiger Woods and Jack Nicklaus, among others.
You need good information. If you have a handicap and are not on an uninterrupted upward climb to golfing greatness you probably are going to have to change something in order to get better. If you are going to try to get better and you have to make some changes your best bet is to get the best advice on what those changes should be. That’s what teachers get paid to do: save you time and make your effort as efficient as possible. That is why good advice is so valuable. Conventional golf swing knowledge can temporarily occupy the mind of the hyper talented and serve to focus them on something other than their troubles and thus will be deemed “successful” as the player inevitably comes out of whatever slump they are in.
You need to compete. Competition is the test for what you are working on. What you are working on is preparing you for the test. The cycle is never ending, unless you quit playing or die.
 
You need discipline: Most people don’t have all day to devote to the game. If you are a normal working person you are going to have to figure out how to fit enough practice and play in to get the most out of your knowledge. If you are in high school or college you have to figure out how to get good grades and play good golf at the same time. Not much time for partying. If you are prospective pro you have to have a great work ethic and know when to go to bed. For the most part knuckleheads don’t make it anymore unless they are incredibly talented.
 
I should think of some others but it’s getting late and this could go on for a while. Suffice it to say that it is extremely hard to be really good at golf, and that’s what most of you want. I am the same way. I’m not perfect in all these respects, but I do know a little something about getting the most out of what you have.

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