Outcome Goals (OG) Vs Intention Goals (IG), know the difference, your game depends on it!
OGs help you develop a long-term vision for your game. They should not be used for a particular round of golf. OGs raise anxiety because the outcome you seek is often out of your comfort zone. Setting OGs for a particular round will increase tension, compromising your ability to play in the zone. Only use them to monitor your improvement over a specific period of time, weeks, months, or years.
OGs should sound like: I want to be shooting in the low 70’s in 3 months time and these are the steps I will take to achieve that goal. OGs should not be, I will make 5 birdies today or shoot a 73!
IGs, on the other hand, refer to something that is completely within your control and not dependent on the outcome of a given round or shot. IGs are achievable anytime anywhere and depend only on you making an intentional, purposeful, choice to experience them. Take them with you to the golf course every time you play. IGs reduce tension.
IGs sound like: Today I will make a conscious effort to visualize the ball flight before I hit my shot. Or, I will remember to take deep relaxing breaths before each shot.
Set Intention Goals next time you play and you may be surprised by how low your scores go.
Doug Hodges developed his expertise as a Performance Coach while at the La Costa Resort in Carlsbad, CA. He now offers ThinkWorkPlay programs at the Heritage Golf Club in Wake Forest and The Grandover Resort in Greensboro. All golfers, from the Tour Player to Novice, now have the opportunity to develop the tools to unlock their potential, have more fun, and lower their scores. Visit www.thinkworkplay.com to learn more.
