Rachael & Smith recently created Pool Networking events to increase opportunities for interaction and socializing for clients who sign up as part of the service.
In this group, potential matches meet regularly to practice. One night, I was playing with my client Evelyn when two mature western guys in their early 50s came up and asked to join us for mixed doubles. After a few shots, I asked one of the guys, “Why aren’t you teaching your partner Evelyn?” He said she wasn’t listening to him. Evelyn is a businesswoman and knows how to play, so it’s difficult for her to just follow advice.
I suggested to Evelyn to try listening more to your partner, even if you disagree, and see what happens. Then the guy said, “You sound like you’re teaching her how to be a wife.”
I said, “Partnership is not just about telling the other person what to do. It’s about communication, and making an effort to avoid misunderstandings.”
In any game, teamwork is tantamount to success and enjoyment. It is important to make your partner feel that his/her efforts are appreciated. If it’s your life partner and you cannot agree on the small things, it’s going to be a long, arduous journey.
