#11. The Space Between: Expectation vs. Reality on the Golf Course

The expectation each time you step on the course is to play your best and shoot more pars than bogeys, right? Expecting to play your best is the goal; however, your best differs day-to-day based on numerous variables. A critical mistake I see many golfers make is setting rigid expectations that are incongruent and unrealistic with reality. The result? It's a miserable experience of frustration, anger, envy, and poor performance. In today's episode, I'll help you understand how a large space between expectation and reality may hold you back from shooting lower scores. I'll offer tangible examples to help you clarify a more appropriate, fluid expectation and how to close the gap so you can play better golf. Start listening. P.S. I'm getting great feedback on this recent issue of the More Pars Than Bogeys Newsletter, which digs into cultivating the emotional resiliency necessary to shoot more pars than bogeys. Check it out here . Key Quotes: "It's the space between expectation and reality that is responsible for you remaining stuck in a downward spiral of negative self-talk." "Golf is not a game of perfect." "Your false expectations are keeping you stuck in a state of anger, frustration, and envy." Subscribe to the More Pars Than Bogeys Newsletter. This newsletter helps double-digit golfers overcome the emotional and mental hazards of their minds so that they can shoot more pars than bogeys. Each week, I'll provide insights, principles, and strategies to help you deter distractions, find your focus, manage your emotions, and cultivate boundless confidence so that you can play to your potential. Subscribe now . Are you curious to learn how hypnosis can help you shoot lower scores? Snag my free hypnosis audio recording today to help you play your best round tomorrow. Download it here. Join our free and growing community of serious golfers striving to shoot more pars than bogeys. More Pars Than Bogeys Facebook Group . For all things 1:1 Mental Game Coaching, Group Mental Game Coaching, and Speaking, visit me here: www.golfmindsetcoaching.com . For feedback, questions, or to take me out for a round of golf, shoot me an email or connect with me on social media: Instagram: @paulsaltercoaching Twitter: @paulsaltercoach LinkedIn: Paul Salter Coaching Time Stamps: 00:00 Introduction and Newsletter Announcement 01:29 Golf as a Mirror of Life 04:54 Personal Golf Experience and Setting Expectations 08:25 The Gap Between Expectations and Reality 14:14 Consistency in Practice and Play 21:48 Narrowing the Gap: Staying Motivated and Focused 22:40 Conclusion and Call to Action