Professional Courtesy Rx for Happiness: Golf by Dr. Thomas Giacobbi

by Thomas Giacobbi, DDS, FAGD, editorial director, Dentaltown magazine

How Golf Is Like Dentistry

I recently returned from the 16th annual Townie Meeting in Orlando, Florida. This was the first time Dentaltown hosted its yearly gathering anywhere besides Las Vegas, and it turned out to be a resounding success—the location attracted many first-time attendees, and some terrific old friends as well.

The meeting has always been a mix of education and entertainment; one of my favorite events is golfing with Townies. This year, we were guests of Scheduling Institute at Disney’s Magnolia Golf Course. Whether I’m on a golf course alone, playing with my family or, in this case, playing with dental colleagues I’d just met, golf is always a wonderful rejuvenation. Those who don’t play golf will say they don’t understand why anyone would chase a little white ball around for four hours. On the other hand, those who love the game see so much more than just the goal of getting the ball into the hole.

In fact, there are so many similarities between golf and dentistry that it makes total sense that dentists have long been associated with the game of golf. I think there are fewer dentists playing golf now because the time commitment has been a challenge in this age of distractions. If you’re looking for an outlet to ease your frustrations at work, or you need a hobby to usher in your retirement, consider golf. Play nine holes if you’re short on time, or simply spend time working on your short game. There are few activities that can keep you active well into your golden years.

I know there will be many others who share a similar level of passion for fishing, tennis or other activities—the most important message is to find something that energizes you outside of your office! Spend enough time doing these things that you can find balance and recharge your batteries before the next Class II composite walks in the door.