Did you know: How a Golfer will perform is definitely not predictable but to some extent, most of them play well when expectations are in the lowest form? However, at a conscious or a subconscious level, most of them are thinking, anticipating and getting stressed over their game in advance.

So, whether you are a beginner or a pro, the first thing you need is - A robust mental Golf game that needs giving a miss to expectations.

Managing expectations means managing your internal thoughts and emotions to keep them in balance with your abilities.

Here’s a closer look at the seven ways for effectively managing your expectations on the Golf Course:

Have real, real expectations: The USGA handicap system is a mathematical system that attempts to have an equitable way for golfers of varying abilities to play games with each other. Your handicap is based on your last lowest ten scores. In other words, it is your personal best, not necessarily your day-to-day average scores. Expecting to shoot your best every time you play is unrealistic.

Avoid getting disappointed: If your expectations are too high, you will be constantly disappointed. Unreachable expectations will cause tension in your mind and body putting pressure on yourself to perform.

Develop a mindset to relax: When you are playing well be aware of your thoughts moving you away from the process of preparing for the shot. Develop a mindset to focus on relaxation and on the steps of your pre-shot routine to stay in the present.

Control your emotions and expectations:  The more expectations you have, the more emotion you put into the result of your shots. When your mind wanders to thinking about your expectations, bring it back to the present time by taking several deep breaths.

Don’t stress on the ‘should’ score factor: Not making the “should” score leaves you with negative emotions such as guilt and frustration. This leads you to stop trusting your swing and a belief that you have a mechanical problem when it is your expectations that limit your progress.

Don’t count the strokes, make the strokes count!

Believe in your abilities: All golfers, including the professionals, make embarrassing mistakes due to their expectations of hitting the perfect shot. Let go of shots and putts that don’t meet your expectations and concentrate on accessing the abilities that you know you have.

Managing your expectations on the Golf course may seem to be an impossible task but it’s definitely not an impossible one. The golfers that ultimately succeed are those who can manage their expectations the best during the course of the round.