What's Your Target? What's Your Strategy?
When you stand over the golf ball, two powerful questions can completely transform the way you play:
“What’s my target?”
“What’s my strategy?”
These questions are simple, but when used consistently, they help you bring clarity, confidence, and intention into every shot you play. Let’s break down why they matter and how you can use them to your advantage.
Define Your Target Clearly
Too many golfers step up to the ball with only a vague idea of where they want it to go. “Down the fairway” or “somewhere on the green” isn’t enough.
Instead, pick a precise target:
A specific tree in the distance
A spot on the fairway
The right side of the green to allow for a safe putt
When you give your mind a clear and specific target, your body has better information to execute the swing. Think of it like aiming a dart—you don’t just throw at the wall, you focus on the bullseye.
Build a Strategy Around the Shot
Once you know your target, the next step is asking: “What’s my strategy to get there?”
This isn’t about hitting the perfect shot. It’s about making the smartest decision given your skills, the course conditions, and the situation. For example:
Do you aim for the middle of the green instead of the flag because there’s water guarding the pin?
Should you hit a controlled hybrid off the tee instead of a risky driver?
Is a lay-up the wiser play to set up your approach?
Good strategy turns golf into a game of chess instead of chance. It helps you play to your strengths while minimizing big mistakes.
Intentional Golf = Better Results
When you consistently ask yourself these two questions before every shot, you shift from “hitting and hoping” to playing with purpose. That intention leads to:
More focused swings
Better decision-making
Greater confidence
Fewer wasted strokes
Golf isn’t just about swinging well—it’s about thinking well. By pairing a clear target with a smart strategy, you give yourself the best chance to succeed.
Next Round: Try It
Next time you’re on the course, commit to asking yourself before every shot:
What’s my target?
What’s my strategy?
You’ll be surprised at how quickly your game feels sharper, calmer, and more consistent.
Practice Routine: Train Your Target & Strategy
It’s one thing to think about target and strategy on the course—it’s another to make it automatic. Here’s a simple practice routine you can use on the range:
Step 1: Pick a Target
Don’t just hit balls into the open field. Choose something specific—like a flag, a tree, or a yardage marker.
Step 2: Decide on Your Strategy
Ask yourself: What’s the smartest shot to hit toward that target?
Is it a full swing or a controlled three-quarter swing?
Should you aim slightly left or right to allow for your natural shot shape?
What club gives you the highest percentage play?
Step 3: Commit and Swing
Once you’ve chosen, step into the shot with full commitment. No second guessing.
Step 4: Reflect Briefly
After the shot, take a moment to check:
Did I stick to my plan?
Did I execute with confidence?
(Notice the reflection is about your process, not whether the shot was perfect.)
Pro Tip
On the range, quality beats quantity. Hitting 30 balls with full focus on target and strategy will benefit you much more than mindlessly pounding 100 balls.