1. Achieve “Financial Neutrality”

I vow to convince myself that the money I save by not buying a new $800 driver is actually a “profit.” This profit will be immediately reinvested into the clubhouse menu and the occasional sleeve of balls I’ll lose by hole four.  

2. Practice “Acoustic Excellence”

I resolve to improve my post-shot vocabulary. Instead of “cursing at a ball that is clearly deaf,” I will try more constructive phrases like, “That ball is just exploring the real estate market in the woods.”  

3. Optimize My “Commute”

I promise to treat my golf cart like the luxury vehicle it is. In 2026, the commute from the bag drop to the first tee should be the only part of the round where I stay strictly on the pavement.

4. Perfect the “Strategic” Scorecard

I will work on my “Golf Math.” Since “12 inches short + cursing” doesn’t equal a birdie, I resolve to see if a “generous conceded putt” + a quick pencil change equals a respectable par.

5. Embrace “Bunker Tourism”

Since I can’t seem to avoid them, I resolve to stop treating bunkers like hazards and start treating them like “beachfront property.” I’m not stuck; I’m just enjoying the premium Naples sand.

6. Balance My “Practice” Schedule

I vow to stop saying “next Thursday looks promising” for short game practice. Instead, I’ll just accept that my most consistent “practice” officially happens in the shade of the 19th hole.

7. Negotiate with the Local Wildlife

I resolve to stop trying to “talk” my ball out of the water. In Southwest Florida, if the ball goes into a pond, it belongs to the alligators. I will respect their property rights and move on with my life.

8. Improve My “Back-Nine Cardio”

I promise to “exercise more” by playing six days a week. If I happen to spend four of those hours sitting in a cart, I will count the act of reaching for my rangefinder as a “repetition.”

9. Master the “Public Gallery” Etiquette

Since I don’t have a lanai overlooking a green, I resolve to be a supportive spectator from the cart path. This means I will stop quietly judging the putting stroke of the group ahead—unless they take more than four putts.

10. Prioritize the “Naples Standard”

My ultimate resolution is to remember why we are all here. Even if I don’t score better than my age (until I’m 117), I resolve to have more fun than anyone else on the course.

Thinking of making a move? If your 2026 resolution involves finding a home closer to the fairway (so you can have the Lanai Gallery!), I can help! Whether you are buying or selling in a Naples golf community, reach out today to get the “pro” perspective on the market.

Happy Golfing and Happy New Year!