Process Goals and One Shot at a Time
Also known as: stop thinking about score, how do I stop thinking about my score, process goals, process vs outcome goals, one shot at a time, thinking about score in golf, playing one shot at a time
To stop thinking about score, give your mind a job you control on every shot. Set process goals, such as finishing your routine, picking a small target and making a committed swing. Judge each shot by those goals, not by the total, and don't add up your score during the round.
An outcome goal is a result, such as breaking 90. A process goal is something you do, such as committing to every shot. You cannot fully control the outcome. Wind, bounces and lies all play a part. You can control the process, so it is a better place for your attention.
Thinking about score pulls your mind into the past and future. You replay the last hole or count what you need. Process goals bring it back to the shot in front of you. Many golfers rate themselves after each shot on one or two simple points.
Keep score for the card, but don't keep a running total. Count your process points instead. Over time, better process tends to lead to better scores.
Tips by skill level
Pick two process goals for your next round. Tick a box each time you meet them.
Review your process score after the round. Compare it with your score over several rounds to see the link.
Example
A golfer needs to par the last three holes to break 80. Instead of counting, she gives herself one job per shot: pick a target, breathe, commit. She finishes with two pars and a bogey.
Why it matters
Focusing on what you control lowers tension. It helps you play the next shot well instead of worrying about the total.
Common mistakes
- Counting your total score after every hole
- Setting only outcome goals for a round
- Judging a good swing as bad because of a bad bounce
Frequently asked questions
What is a process goal in golf?
A goal about something you control, such as completing your routine or committing to a target. It contrasts with outcome goals like a score.
How do you play golf one shot at a time?
Give full attention to the current shot through your routine. Afterward, note what happened briefly, then let it go before the next shot.
Related terms
- Pre-Shot RoutineA pre-shot routine is the fixed set of steps a golfer repeats before every shot: read, visualize, aim, waggle, commit. Its goal is focus and consistency under pressure.
- Staying Focused for a Whole RoundNobody can concentrate hard for a whole round, so switch your focus on for each shot and let it go between shots. Use your pre-shot routine to switch on and commit to one clear target. Afterward, briefly review the shot and switch off by chatting or enjoying the walk. A consistent routine before and after every shot helps bring your attention back when it drifts.
- Choking Under Pressure in GolfChoking is when pressure pushes your play below its normal level. It often happens when you start consciously controlling a move that is normally automatic, or when worry crowds out your focus. Keep your routine and tempo, focus on the target rather than your body and practice with consequences so pressure feels familiar.
- Post-Shot Routine (Letting Go of a Bad Shot)Stop one bad shot ruining your round with a short post-shot routine. React briefly, note one thing to do differently, then use a cue to let it go, such as putting the club back in the bag. Then play the next shot safely so one mistake doesn't become two.
Related guides & benchmarks
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