The Generation Next Project began with founder Robert Jones Black (great-grandson of golf legend Bobby Jones) after the tragic and inexplicable loss his good friends experienced when their 12-year-old son took his life.
Motivated to make a positive and direct impact on youth mental health, both on and off the course, Robert began considering how he could provide youth (golfers, their families, and coaches) with mental fitness tools and communication skills to thrive in today’s world. Dr. Karla Steingraber joined the team, created the mental fitness curriculum, and is now serving as President and Chief Psychologist of this impactful non-profit organization.
Dr. Karla Steingraber recently spoke at the Change Your Course event in Evans, Georgia, where golfers met to kick start the Generation Next Project. She explains ‘first tee’ jitters are extremely relevant in all aspects of our life- not exclusive to golf, and not even only sports. Whether it be an important presentation, public speaking, a new project, or even asking someone out on a date, the underlying mechanism is the same. Worry about shame or embarrassment caused by our own behavior, Dr. Steingraber highlights that we are much harsher critics of ourselves, than others are. We must learn to distance ourselves from this shame so we can step away from the self-consciousness that is hindering our performance and mindset.
Generation Next Project is a relevant and timely cause, deserving your attention. Everyone has something to gain from engaging with the foundation. Learn more at https://www.generationnextproject.org/ or check out the Pick Up The 6 podcast episode on Generation Next in order to learn more about the foundation and ways to support the cause. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nOgDim1lv5Y