How do you filter your golf game?
The story of The Three Sieves has been around for a long time. Some say it goes back to the Greek philosopher Socrates. Others say it originated a long time ago, but not quite that far back. The origin of the story isn’t as important as its message: you should pass information and knowledge through three sieves (filters) before you accept it.
Whenever you hear something, especially some gossip or negative conversation about someone else, you should pass the information through three filters. The first is truth. Do you know the information to be true? The next is goodness. Is the information meant to be positive? The last filter is usefulness. Is the information necessary and helpful?
In a social media world, it is important to be careful with gossip. We shouldn’t spread nonsense about others without using the three sieves. But, in addition to helping us manage a world where everyone shares everything all of the time, the three sieves can help our golf games too. First, especially as young golfers, you will constantly be given advice on how to swing a golf club. It’s part of golf culture to share. Next, golf is 90% mental. You will constantly give yourself advice while you’re on the golf course.
So, whether it’s a tip you get on the driving range or a thought that comes to you as you’re preparing for your next shot over water, use the three sieves. Ask yourself:
- Is it true?
- Is it good?
- It useful?
