About this episode
In this episode of Links for Life , Tommy and Joe unpack one of the most surprising realities in golf: most golfers never actually get better . Handicaps stay the same for years, even decades — not because people aren’t trying, but because most golfers don’t know how to practice in ways that lead to real improvement. This episode dives deep into the art of practicing well . Tommy and Joe explore why so much effort gets wasted, what effective practice actually looks like, and how intention, experimentation, and honest self-assessment can transform both your game and your enjoyment of it. They break down practical strategies for range sessions, short game work, overcoming weaknesses, and building an off-season plan that sets up a breakthrough season ahead. Whether you're new to practice or you’ve been stuck at the same scoring plateau, this episode gives you a clear, encouraging roadmap for how to finally start improving. Takeaways: Most golfers fail to improve because they practice the same habits without intention. Effective practice is purposeful , targeted , and fun enough to keep you engaged. Gamifying practice boosts focus and accelerates learning. Experimenting with ball flight and feel on the range teaches more than grinding stock shots. Short game practice is essential — yet it’s the least practiced part of the game. Honest self-assessment helps you identify what’s actually holding you back. An off-season plan turns “winter rust” into real progress. Balancing strengths and weaknesses keeps practice structured and sustainable. Improvement comes from rhythm, reflection, and the courage to face what’s sabotaging your game. Better practice in golf mirrors better practice in life — clarity and intention matter everywhere. Golf Self-Assessment List (1–10 Scale) Use this to determine where your practice should go: Putting Chipping Sand play Pitching Half wedges (40–70 yards) Irons Fairway woods / hybrids Driver Life 360–Style Reflection List (as applied to golf) Framework referenced by Tommy: Communication Finances Marriage / relationships Parenting Health Work / vocation Personal growth Emotional life Spiritual life Rhythms / rest Chapters 00:00 The Challenge of Improvement in Golf 02:42 The Importance of Effective Practice 05:48 Mindset and Intentionality in Practice 08:53 Making Practice Fun and Engaging 11:49 The Role of Intention in Practice Sessions 14:50 Experimentation and Learning on the Range 17:45 Short Game as the Key to Golf Success 28:03 Mastering the Short Game 30:50 Developing an Off-Season Plan 33:32 Self-Assessment for Improvement 38:47 Embracing Frustration in Practice 42:50 Identifying and Overcoming Sabotaging Weaknesses 47:44 Balancing Perfectionism and Progress Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!