How to Make Your 2026 Golf Goals

My freshman year of college, my golf coach forced me out of one of my worst habits, the lack of making goals or resolutions. He challenged me to list 5 goals on a sticky note he would hold onto until the end of the semester. The goals could vary, from making the dean's list, to getting an A, or keeping my mental cool on the course, or having the same pre-shot routine every time. 

I share this information to hopefully inspire you to make your own 2026 golf goals. Whether you are new to the course, an intermediate player to the game, or best friends with the club pros, there are always new and fun ways to improve your game and bring it to the next level. 

As of 2025, the average women's USGA Handicap Index rests at 28. Numbers ranging from 20 through 29 make up 36% of the total female handicap index, and over 30% of scores posted by a female in 2025 were 9 holes. The skill range for AZ GOLF members is wide, but I’ve divided the goals up into two categories, new to the game and experienced. 

Someone who is new to the game may be introduced within the past year, played under 10 rounds in 2025, or doesn’t post much or at all. Someone experienced might have 2+ years in the golf world, play more consistently, post scores, and even play in AZ GOLF tournaments. 

When it comes to golf, I believe there are three categories for a new goal to be achieved; mental, course-based, and social, the same types of goals I set for myself this year. 

Course-based is simple, and usually the most common type of goal that a golfer will make. They may include breaking 90, not having more than three putts a hole, or getting up-and-down every time. Some examples of a course-based goal are below: 

Course-based

• New to the game
  • Posting a true score; no breakfast balls, redo's or foot wedges
  • Have a cutoff each hole (double par)
  • Take a lesson
• Experienced
  • No three-putts
  • Get the ball to the hole
  • Keep track of stats to improve your game (greens in regulation, fairways hit, total putts)

Golf, as many experts (and I) say, is 90% mental. Constantly thinking about course conditions, weather, and swing thoughts are something the physical game cannot help with. Mental goals in golf can be the most important, which help you move to the next level.

Mental goals 

• New to the game: 
  • Have one swing thought in your head 
  • Minimize mistakes, take the easier and safer route
  • Have fun
• Experienced: 
  • Three seconds to think about a bad shot and move on 
  • Be comfortable with making changes or mistakes

While not considered an imperative part of the game, the social aspect of golf is one that simply comes with the wonderful game. Meeting new people on the course, on the driving range, or inside the pro shop are a staple of the golf world. And luckily, the golf community (and AZ GOLF) welcomes new beginners with open arms. 

Social goals

• New to the game: 
  • Join other women at an AZ GOLF Range Night event
  • Try different golf games with friends 
  • Go to the range by yourself once a month
• Experienced:
  • Play in AZ GOLF tournament or championship
  • Play a round by yourself, or join a group as a single and meet new people

While none of these need to be acted upon immediately, try and take something from this list and make your own goals! Golf is a learning opportunity in every part of the game, and no goal is too big or too small.