Page 40 - Demo

GOLF TEACHING PRO%u00ae 38 WINTER 2O26NEWS FROM JAPANSTORIES FROM AROUND THE WORLD JAPANIhave worked as a registered nurse for 20 years across a wide range of clinical settings, while raising children, working night shifts and dedicating myself to golf practice and training. My approach was based on setting clear goals and pursuing them through systematic %u201csmall steps.%u201d %u201cSmall steps%u201d means breaking a major goal into smaller, achievable stages rather than trying to reach it all at once. This method reduces the risk of failure, makes success more attainable, and encourages motivation by building on accumulated achievements.Titleist %u2013 A globally trusted brandMy goals with Titleist clubs are as follows:1. Develop the ability to play well with Titleist clubs.2. Become a golfer worthy of these clubs.3. Reach a single-digit handicap with them.4. Qualify for an amateur championship with them.5. Compete successfully in the championship finals with them.Fortunately, I had the guidance of a Titleist fitting specialist in pursuing my goals. I often visited a golf shop I loved, where I engaged in many conversations with the staff. Their passion for Titleist clubs and willingness to share essential knowledge greatly supported my progress. Even after hospital shifts and between childcare responsibilities, I made time to study and discuss golf theory, which helped me build a trusting and steady relationship with the fitting specialist.Eventually, I was given the opportunity to meet with representatives of Acushnet Japan%u2019s headquarters This gave me the chance to openly share my career story: my financial stability as a nurse; my experience of competing with Titleist clubs while raising children; my established work/life balance; my commitment to educating students about proper club use not for profit; my dedication to maximizing student satisfaction, and finally, the recommendation I received from the fitting specialist.Receiving professional club support made me realize that trust is fundamental. This outcome was achieved through several career paths pursued step-byBy Yumi Ogura, WGTF-Japan memberThe importance of a second career is growing within the golf community. With the increasing length of professional careers, relying on a single profession is often insufficient. Building multiple careers provides greater financial stability. In addition, applying the skills and experiences gained from one career to another field promotes not only individual growth but also the effective use of knowledge and expertise for the benefit of society. New challenges foster self-fulfillment and enable individuals to contribute with diverse perspectives and experiences. Moreover, having a broader range of career options allows people to design paths that fit their own stage of life, which also supports a healthier work/life balance.