Lucas Spahl Discusses The Importance of Managing Expectations

Alex Elias

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Courtesy of Evan Schiller (@evan_schiller_photography)

Managing expectations is one of golf’s greatest challenges.

"I believe that there is a misnomer between what amateur golfers see as goals for their game and goals that are realistic. I think amateurs see their goals as the best possible outcome, but that is not realistic for any player," said Lucas Spahl, First Assistant Golf Professional at The Creek (Locust Valley, NY) and Assistant Golf Professional at McArthur Golf Club (Hobe Sound, FL). 

As amateur golfers often set goals that are unrealistic — whether it's hitting more fairways and/or greens or posting lower scores — Spahl emphasized the toll it can take: “When your goals are too difficult to achieve, it can become incredibly draining.”
 
As draining golf can consume a golfer’s mindset, Spahl said, “You can lose confidence, get down on yourself, and negative thoughts take control. From personal experience, I have definitely had a few rounds that have started off very poor, and it’s very difficult to get back on track or to get off the ‘bogey train.’” Ultimately, that loss of concentration leads to one’s scorecard being negatively affected.

How to manage expectations:
"To re-evaluate their expectations, amateurs first need a clearer understanding of what an average round actually looks like for them," said Spahl. “Too often, they expect the best possible outcome instead of one that realistically aligns with their handicap. Once they recognize that, they can set achievable goals and tailor their practice to help reach them more effectively."