Below is an old post that I recently came across. I think it’s a good reminder for those of us out there grinding on the range and maybe getting frustrated with our games' current state.
The Realistic Optimist
“Goals should be difficult to achieve because those achieved with little effort are seldom appreciated, give little personal satisfaction, and are often not very worthwhile. However, if you set goals that are so idealistic there’s no possibility of reaching them, you will eventually become discouraged and quit. They become counterproductive. Be a realistic optimist.”
-John Wooden, Hall of Fame Basketball Coach
Most golfers fall into the second category, sometimes biting off more than they can chew. So, if you are shooting a 95 on average, it’s probably not a good idea to make your goal to become a scratch golfer. Let’s break 90 first. And focus on how we’re going to get there.
I advise picking one overall goal for the season, whether it’s a handicap or breaking a certain score. Make it challenging but attainable.
Now, set up some smaller micro-goals to help you hit your main goal. It could be going to the range twice a week, increasing GIRs per round, 20 minutes of putting practice, practicing 50% and 75% wedge shots, 36 or fewer putts, etc.
Once you break through your goal, reassess and make a new one.
Note: I’ve been in a rough spot lately on the golf course, and I think this quote is perfect for someone in a similar situation.
With my game in flux, I’m focusing on getting off the tee, improving my pre-shot routine, and trying to think less and have more fun. I hope these process goals will lead me back to consistently shooting in the low 80s. Once I get back there, I’ll reassess and make a new goal.
TLDR: Step back. Pick a more attainable goal and two or three process goals to help you get there. Write it down! Then reassess.
Thank you for reading and subscribing. If you enjoyed this piece, hit the “like” ❤️ button below and share it with a fellow golfer.
Have a good weekend.
A good one Kev - my goal now is to see Derek and Jenn have fun but the same principles all apply.