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Create New Year’s Resolutions That Will Stick

I came down with a cold this past week which really knocked me on my butt. Looking on the bright side though, it gave me some much needed down time to think about the new year and what my goals (i.e., resolutions) should be. New Year’s resolutions, those well-intentioned promises we make to ourselves, often carry a sense of optimism and a desire for personal growth. I found some studies that suggest only about 8% of people successfully achieve their New Year’s goals.

In this post I thought it would be good to discuss why your resolutions may fall by the wayside. And, I list three golf-related resolutions experts suggest. Interestingly, none of them have to do with scoring. 🤔

Our resolutions fail for a variety of reasons, and it’s important to approach the topic with understanding rather than judgment. The primary reason we fail is the unrealistic nature of most of our resolutions. Setting overly ambitious goals leads to frustration and discouragement when progress is slower than expected (got that one right!). It’s important for us to recognize that change takes time, and embracing a gradual approach can increase the likelihood of success, the experts say.

The Unexpected

As we know all too well, life’s unpredictability often derails resolutions. Unforeseen physical challenges, our busy schedules, and unexpected events can disrupt progress toward even the most reasonable well-planned goals. For me, being down (sick) this past week was a rude awakening since I had lots of stuff I wanted to do. Instead of viewing setbacks as failures, the better and more productive route is to treat them as opportunities for learning and adaptation. Life is dynamic, and the ability to adjust one’s approach contributes to long-term success.

Got A Plan?

Another common pitfall is the lack of a concrete plan. Resolutions made without a clear roadmap have often led me to feel lost or overwhelmed. Establishing specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound goals, along with a realistic action plan, can enhance the chances of progress and sustained commitment.

Support System

Most critical according to studies, is that the absence of a support system contributes to resolution abandonment. Sharing goals with friends or family members, or finding a like-minded community, provides a network of encouragement and accountability. Celebrating small victories and having a supportive environment can turn the journey into a collective effort rather than a solitary struggle.

In the spirit of forgiveness, I read that it’s essential to recognize that setbacks are part of the experience. Instead of dwelling on perceived failures, individuals should acknowledge their efforts and resilience. The emphasis should shift from a punitive mindset to one that appreciates the journey, embracing as one expert wrote “the process of growth and self-discovery”.

All of this, I think, means New Year’s resolutions may face challenges, but adopting a forgiving perspective transforms setbacks into stepping stones. By setting realistic goals, adapting to life’s uncertainties, crafting actionable plans, and fostering a supportive environment, we increase our chances of turning resolutions into lasting positive changes. Along with others, I believe the journey is as valuable as the destination, and each step forward is a triumph worth celebrating.

So, what does this mean for our golf in 2024?

As golfers we are already eagerly anticipating the upcoming season. And, it’s likely the pursuit of lower scores dominates our thinking — I know that’s where I go first. However, my research showed me that a truly enriching golfing experience this coming season may lie in something other than a numerical outcome. To maximize enjoyment on the course, perhaps you should consider three other aspects of the game emphasized in studies and statistics outlined below.

Social

First, try fostering a sense of social connection. A study conducted by the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that social interaction during physical activities, such as golf, positively impacts mental well-being. Rather than solely focusing on your individual performance, prioritize shared rounds with friends and family and golf trips with your bestie. Camaraderie and shared experiences contribute significantly to the overall satisfaction derived from the game.

Mental

Second, try embracing the mental aspect of golf which has been shown to profoundly influence enjoyment. Numerous studies, including research published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology, emphasize the impact of mindfulness and mental resilience on golf performance. Integrating mindfulness practices, such as controlled breathing or visualization techniques, not only enhances focus and composure but also elevates the overall enjoyment of the game. Recognizing that golf is as much a mental challenge as a physical one can lead to a more fulfilling experience on the course.

If you want to do some work on your mental game, I highly suggest these books:

Change It Up

Finally, try diversifying the golfing experience beyond competitive rounds. I found a report by the National Golf Foundation that discussed the rise of alternative formats and shorter versions of the game. Engaging in activities like nine-hole rounds, twilight golf, or themed events introduces variety and breaks the monotony of traditional 18-hole play.

In 2024, I say that beyond the pursuit of lower scores, we can all resolve to significantly increase our enjoyment of golf by prioritizing social connections, embracing the mental aspect of the game, and diversifying our playing experiences. In other words, the pursuit of enjoyment alongside raw score improvement is a great narrative for your 2024 golfing journey.

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