Chips are ok from 8 yrds in, but only from light rough, fringe or f/way, not from 30/40% + rough. The flop is your shot saver.
Play one course at a time until you par or beat it, then move on to another...you'll learn the courses quicker that way too.
And don't go crazy spending your hard earned cash, ie: control the equipment, don't let the equipment control you.
You're welcome to try out the Fair Play Golf Club any time. More tips and great fun
>>> FAIR PLAY GOLF CLUB
Good luck, enjoy.