Expectations can be a golfer’s nemesis. Often, we expect very little and then don’t give it our best effort. We’re then not disappointed when we fail. This is the perfect defence mechanism because we have the internal excuse, “I wasn’t really trying that hard”.
When we aim too high we’re continually let down. When something should be celebrated (like a birdie or 36 stableford points on a tricky day) we feel like a failure. It’s hard to keep raising the bar and getting what you want.
Here’s a different strategy.
Stop expecting. Turn up and play golf the way you want to play and accept what comes out. Give it your best effort but stop setting expectations that could be holding you back. This is another way of saying “play the game”.
It’s not the most exciting instruction you’ll read but it can make you a better (and happier) golfer.