When we go for the big shot right off the bat, we’re setting ourselves up to be disappointed when it doesn’t work out on the first try.

Often, we will find more success by becoming comfortable with taking multiple steps toward achieving a goal. By having a process and trusting it.

When I first picked up a golf club, I thought I knew what I was doing. I was a decent enough athlete and could be serviceable in most sports so I figured the same would be true of golf.

But aggressiveness wasn’t a good look for me on the golf course. Although I didn’t really care about my score, I was competitive enough with myself that I instantly felt how frustrating a game it could be.

A friend of mine gave me a great piece of advice one day on a fairway.

Aim for the green. Don’t even think about the hole. And if you get onto the green and have a long putt ahead of you, don’t aim for the pin. Aim for a 6 foot circle around the hole.

The idea was to be a little more methodical. Getting closer safely and successfully was a more sure bet than swinging away for the miracle shot. If I could more consistently hit the green, or get a first putt inside six feet, good things would happen.

When you get close enough to take out the putter, then and only then should you take it out.

I apply this thinking to lots of workplace situations as well. I don’t aim for perfection, but for better than where we are. At least then, I can be confident that things are moving in the right direction.

Have a great weekend!