If I’m honest, I think I could be less than positive when I first started playing golf in my teens. I was really keen on the game and just wanted to be as good as I could be. Unrealistic expectations, self-inflicted pressure, teenage levels of testosterone and a massive slice are an unstable combo!
I’m 42 now and have only recently returned to regular play, having just kept my hand in for the last decade or two (maybe 3-4 rounds a year). I’m playing better than I ever have - purely because I appreciate the time on the course more than ever. I can shrug off a couple of bad holes and get straight back to making a run of pars. It’s really noticeable how the right attitude sets up better play - it’s a virtuous circle that feels great to be in.
An early read for me in this second golf life was ‘Golf Is Not A Game Of Perfect’ (recommended on this very site!) and I found it so helpful. Perhaps an early Xmas gift for the OP’s friend…