As superintendents, we are masters of the plan. We are constantly generating schedules, programs and standards for our courses. We work with our management, architects, arborists and agronomists to chart the course for our properties and make them all they can be.

But then life happens, nature happens, and our best laid plans go astray. It is at this point that the best greenkeepers shine. They are able to take the hiccups and trap doors and use them to their advantage. Whether it is a major rain storm just before the biggest event of the season or disastrous winter damage, general calamity brings out the best in these folks. They somehow figure out how to problem solve, connect with others and use the most challenging situations to create positive change.

What happens, though, when the general plan we have for our personal lives takes a turn? How do we deal with not only the major life changes, but also the subtle folds that make life interesting? I will use a personal example to illustrate my point.

I set out many years back to improve not only my physical fitness, but also my psychological state of affairs. Exercise and meditation became focal points in my journey through life and the difference it made was astounding. I made a plan, focused my intentions, and charted a course for my future well-being that I swore would never change.

Well, the only truth in life is change. This golf season has meant big changes for me both personally and career wise. I took on the dual role of Superintendent and General Manager of our property and needless to say, my life got busy -- fast. It has been a wonderful challenge, and has been progressing pretty well so far (it's only May). The trick is, my busy state of affairs has not left me much time for tending to my physical and mental well being.

So I decided over the weekend that it is time to rethink my original plan. The basic tenets of the plan are still sound; I just need to rework how best to achieve optimum results within my new reality. This new venture needs to give me maximum return on my investment and in turn, get me back on track to a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

My hope is that this new plan will take advantage of the best of my current situation and create a positive framework for my personal life. We all face changes in our lives, some big and some small. How we face those changes and embrace the flow time can make all the difference, indeed.