Pat,
Also not sure that love of game = how much you enjoy it........Case in point possibly being Tour Pros, who love the game so much they make it their living, and then, it becomes work, which is never as much fun as play, no?
Pat,
I have been at clubs where they specifically require little business talk, since that has some tax and legal ramifications under IRS codes, and of course, I cannot vouch for the discussions present in the millions or rounds played each year! Certainly a friendly grudge match for $10 might spur a single mindedness of purpose that would eliminate outside distractions. And, playing like its the Ryder Cup or something important can be very enjoyable variation from the drink a beer, needle your buddy kind of golf.
John,
Sometimes I am dissapointed in movies that get a lot of hype, and pleasantly surprised by ones where I expect little. My first post hinted at that, in that the more often you play good golf courses (or experiences) the more you raise your hopes and tend to focus on the fewer negatives that are there. In general, high expectations lead to lower enjoyment, IMHO.
That said, I have relayed the story of Tom Watson's approach to tournament or any round of golf. Trys to make each round a work of art. Starts the day before by prepping, eating right, sleeping enough. Before the round there is the proper meal, practice, gearing up, checking requirements, studying (again) strategy, etc. During the round display perfect etiquette. I do have the impression he enjoys golf by doing all that, and the back slappers might not enjoy it as much!
I often remind my self of that, and it is fun to approach golf that way. Certainly much better than rushing up late, changing shoes at the car, skipping stretching, talking business, etc.