Golf is a great escape. You play to get away from the other things in your life, such as work, children, bills, etc, hopefully with great company and the stress of a 3 foot putt for $1.  It is a wonderful therapy.  However, it takes a long time (4+ hours on a private course, up to 6 hours on a public course, not including post round meal / drinks and commute time).  If you are married, as I am, this may cause some separation anxiety for you and your wife.  It is a long time commitment, especially when both of you are working all week and the weekend is the only time to spend good time together.  I think it’s important to understand moderation and priorities when it comes to this.  Here are some points to consider:

- Be judicious.  Consider what is going on and when on the weekend, and schedule accordingly.
- Sacrifice, it will pay dividends eventually.  If there is a borderline event, consider not playing.  Consider living your non-golf life and resuming your golf life later.
- Play early.  At my club, if you can get out with the early birds at 8, you can be home by 12.  Limit the damage.
- Don’t make it a whole day event.  Consider dropping out of lunch or drinks after the round.  Show commitment to your life, and your friends will understand.