The Between-Shot Reset
A simple way to leave the last shot behind and return your attention to the next one.
Every shot gives you something to react to. You might be frustrated by a poor strike, excited after a great one, distracted by something around you or already thinking about your score. The Between-Shot Reset gives you a brief, repeatable way to acknowledge what's happened, choose what matters next and return to your normal pre-shot routine.
Acknowledge.
Reset. Refocus.
Acknowledge what happened
Give the previous shot a brief, honest response. “That was a good strike,” “I pushed that one,” or “I'm annoyed I missed that putt.” You don't need to judge yourself or work out the whole swing. Simply recognise what happened.
Let it go
The shot has happened and its result can't be changed. You might still feel pleased, disappointed or frustrated, and that's fine. You don't have to force the feeling away. Just stop giving the previous shot your attention and allow yourself to move on.
Choose the next task
Bring your attention to what's in front of you now. Where is the ball? What is the situation? What shot are you choosing to play? Keep your focus on the decision or task that matters next, rather than trying to make up for the last shot.
Begin your normal pre-shot routine
Once you've chosen your shot, move into the pre-shot routine you already use. Don't add extra swing thoughts or repeat the reset until it feels perfect. The reset helps you arrive at the next shot; your usual routine helps you prepare to play it.
Return to the game.
Don't fight your thoughts.
You don't have to feel a certain way
A reset doesn't mean you must become calm, positive or completely free of frustration. You can still be annoyed after a poor shot. The point is to stop that feeling from deciding what you do next.
Bring your attention forward
Notice when you're replaying the last shot, thinking about your score or worrying about what might happen. You don't need to argue with those thoughts. Return to the situation in front of you and the next decision you need to make.
Keep the reset brief
This is a small transition between shots, not another performance task. If you find yourself repeating the words, checking whether you've let go or trying to get your head in the perfect place, simplify it and carry on.
You don't need to control every thought or feeling. You just need to return your attention to the next shot.
Useful after any shot
that grabs your attention.
After a poor shot
You've hit a slice, left a putt short or made a mistake you can't stop replaying. Acknowledge the result, then turn your attention to the next decision instead of trying to win the shot back.
After a great shot
Enjoy the good shot, but don't let excitement pull you out of the next one. Give yourself a moment to appreciate it, then return to the task in front of you.
When your mind wanders
You might be thinking about your score, a conversation, the group behind you or what happens on the next hole. Use the reset to notice the distraction and bring your attention back to the game.
When pressure builds
If you're worried about a score, rushing because others are watching or feeling the need to make something happen, return to the next task. You don't have to solve the whole round before playing the next shot.
A small reset.
One shot at a time.
Don't wait until you're having a bad round to practise this. Use the reset after your next shot, whatever happened. The more familiar the transition becomes, the easier it is to return to the next task without getting caught up in the last result.
Acknowledge what happened → Let it go → Choose the next task → Begin your normal pre-shot routine
Build on this tool
The Between-Shot Reset works alongside other simple ways to manage attention and prepare for your next shot.
First-Tee Nerves
For managing the pressure and uncertainty you can feel before the round gets going.
Pre-Shot Routine
For turning your chosen shot into a consistent process for preparing and hitting.
Quiet Eye
For learning how steady visual attention can support focus before and during a shot.
You can't change the shot you've just played. You can give the next one your attention.
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