Do you ever catch yourself focusing on what went wrong versus what was done well? We all do. It is really easy to be your own worst enemy.
Back in my school days I used to work for a great golfer. Bill Collins was the club pro at the course I caddied at as a kid. Bill was a five-time winner on the PGA tour and had played in a Ryder Cup. Bill was a great golfer back in the Hogan, Snead and Palmer era. In those days it was tough to make a living on tour and many great golfers took club pro jobs to provide for their families.
Working for Bill was a valuable experience. He must of liked me because he would listen to me complain about my golf game. He once cut me off by asking me if I hit 5 good shots in my round. He explained that Hogan would say that he was lucky to hit 1 or 2 good shots in the round. Of course it was relative, but Bill’s point was that it is better to focus on the 5 good shots versus dwelling on the negative.
Do I have five good dishes? I don’t know, but I certainly get good feedback on the following:
– Rack of Lamb Provençal
– Grill Roasted Shrimp With Bacon
– Romaine Lettuce Wedge
– Mozzarella Stuffed Meatballs
– Grilled Pizzas
It would be easy to focus on the times I have over-cooked a steak or messed up a menu. I know that some of my menus can be complicated. There have certainly been times when I didn’t do the right preparation. While I can be my worst critic, I will say that most supper clubbers are more than polite. I have never heard a complaint. Most are just happy that someone is hosting the party and cooking for them.
Social media has opened a door negative feedback. People will say nasty thing via the internet that they would never say to you in person. I have a rule. I have to make 5 positive comments before making 1 negative.
Focus on the positive. the five good shots, the five good dishes. Have a good time. If your supper club menu or dish isn’t the best, focus on the wine.
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