Living life to the fullest is something I strive to achieve every day, no matter what I’m doing or how I’m feeling. 

But it’s easier said than done!

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s a topic I’m very passionate about both on and off the field of play. Every year around this time I like to check in on my own well-being and make sure my head is in the right place. Just like putting together a May Day basket, how I fill my cup is very critical to me and a big part of who I am as a person. I make it a point to surround myself with positive energy. I read, blog, exercise or listen to music (country, of course!) to keep my mind sharp when faced with adversity.  

When I’m at home in Texas, I have an awesome support system on my side to help me weather any mental storm that comes my way. My three pups! Bubba and Lulu are Briards (giant sheep dogs) who are full of so much love while Tiffany is the sweetest Yorkie you can imagine. If I’m ever down in the dumps, or I’ve just had a crummy day, nothing cures my blues like lounging on the couch or going for long walks around the neighborhood with my dogs. The companionship they show me is unconditional.

I really believe prioritizing your mental state — and providing yourself with an honest assessment about how you’re holding up upstairs — is probably one of the most important things you can do for yourself.

I know it is for me.

As I continue to grow on the LPGA Tour, I’m learning more and more that not-so-happy emotions like stress, anxiety and frustration are just par for the course in the modern world we live in today. That especially includes trying to balance things like my money, my career and my future. But I’m starting to figure out that it’s OK to not always feel OK! Having perspective is what matters more than anything.   

For the record, I’ve never been a huge baseball fan, but you often hear announcers say, “It’s a game of failure.” A batter can actually get out in seven of 10 plate appearances and is still considered an elite hitter. If you ask me, golf is very similar. The poor swings, errant shots and missed putts come with the territory. No matter how much I try to avoid it, I’m going to endure plenty of slumps over four rounds.

When I’m struggling with the physical part of my game, staying mentally strong is super pivotal to achieving success.

If I’m not performing well during a tournament, do I get disappointed? Absolutely! But deep down I always remind myself I’m not defined by my scorecard. It’s just a number. I am beyond blessed to be competing on the LPGA Tour and playing this wonderful sport for a living. It’s been a dream come true for me.

During each event I compete in, I fully acknowledge some lies, fairways and greens are going to make me uneasy. There’s no escaping it. So, to help calm my nerves, and lift my spirits, I visualize every shot I take while understanding all my fear and doubt only exists in my head. I vividly see myself striking the ball and where it’s going to land. From there, I trust my instincts and accept the results — good or bad.

The best part about my mental routine is once I put my clubs in the car after 18 holes, I don’t think about golf the rest of the evening. Shutting the trunk is like my off switch. I need that timeout to recharge, reset and reflect. The last thing I want is to get burnt out and lose my enthusiasm and motivation for my journey. 

We all need a break!

This May, I hope you’re able to press the pause button and find time to focus on your own mental well-being. Maybe it’s talking to someone, meditating in the morning or simply writing down your thoughts before bed each night. Do whatever works for you, because both you — and your mind — deserve to breathe.

You’ve earned it.

Readings to keep you mentally strong:

Financial health means more than money

The journey toward financial freedom

Financial wellness is an evolving journey

More “Knight Life”:

Fun and Focus

Recipe for Success

Goals for the Game of Life

New Year, New Me

Girl Power