1 – Show respect; it’s their job

Flight attendants are akin to golf course starters; they’re asked to offer a scripted sequence of information that customers largely ignore. Not me, though. I appreciate they’re doing a job and I politely give them 45 seconds of my time.

2 – How you start matters

When I step outside on a cool autumn morning and feel the crisp morning wind, I often say to myself, “it’s in off the left.” Not sure if I’m correct; it just feels like a proper way to begin the day.

3 – Amazing, this technology

Posted another lackluster score last week. Got a pop-up alert telling me, "if you were playing Winter Rules it's too early."

4 – At least from where I sit

In baseball it’s 27 up, 27 down for a perfect game. In my golf world, starting and finishing with the same ball and the same two tees (one short, one traditional, both wooden), and having a scorecard that is devoid of penalty strokes is pretty much perfect. Score is irrelevant.

5 – Contain your enthusiasm

Don’t be that guy who yells “great shot” the second a playing competitor makes contact. Let the golfer react to his or her own shot before you weigh in.

GOLF COURSE PHOTO -- When a nephew shares your appreciation for golf and for the sometimes whimsical signs that are spotted on golf courses, you get submissions such as this from Providence CC in Charlotte, N.C. Thanks to Michael Queno, who studies architecture and history of the great game and brings a smile to my face. As always, feel free to forward any golf course signs that make you laugh to jim@powerfades.com.

6 – Show your appreciation

Along those lines, certain comments are greatly appreciated by golfers – such as “nice play” or “great tempo there” or “striped that one.” They highlight your sense of awareness.

7 – Unlikely you’ll use it, but in case . . .

Feel free also to use this one: “Usually a 65-year-old doesn’t look good in a white belt, but it’s ok on you.”

8 – Johnny had the right look

When it comes to golf fashion through the years, the overcoat and tie from the era of Ouimet, Vardon, and Jones resonates, for sure; but give me Johnny Miller in tartan slacks.

9 – Keep the same time all year

Play it forward. Cool concept in golf. But not when it comes to time. Let's put an end to this “spring forward, fall back” nonsense.