Post-Shot Routine: Control Emotions, Learn Quickly, and Stay Focused

Key Points

• Don’t Let Frustration Spiral
  One bad shot can lead to another if emotions aren’t managed — this is how players end up on the "bogey train."
• Use a Post-Shot Routine
  A consistent routine helps reset mentally and emotionally after every shot, reducing negative carryover.
• Ask: Was It Mental or Physical?
  Always evaluate what went wrong:Mental error: poor decision-making, lack of commitment, or negative thoughts.Physical error: execution breakdown, poor lie, or technique issue.
• Learn from the Result
  Replace criticism with curiosity. Ask: What did I learn? not Why did I mess up?
• Example: Misjudging the Lie
  In this case, the ball went left due to rough catching the clubface — part physical, part mental (misread the lie).
• Leave the Shot Behind
  Once you've learned from it, take a breath, put the club away, and move on. The goal isn’t to be fake-positive — it’s to be process-focused and forward-thinking.
• Emotions Are Normal, But Time Matters
  It’s not about avoiding emotion, but limiting how long it controls your focus and body language.
• “Be Curious, Not Critical”
  One of the most important takeaways: curiosity leads to learning; criticism leads to frustration.