Many times when giving a student a golf lesson, I ask them about their expectations. How far do you hit a seven iron or driver? Is your goal to break 100 or 90 or lower. 

Expectations are a huge deal. If you are an 18 handicap you should expect 18 shots to be struck not to your liking. You need not get mad when you skull a chip shot or take 40 putts in 18 holes. When asked how far you hit your driver, most players say what they can reach on their best shot. 

Knowing your yardages can help lower your score tremendously. How many times are you out playing, and you say to yourself, I can get on the green with a seven iron. Your best shot might but most of your shots will not reach. 

How many greens do you miss because of club selection. The next time you go to the driving range, hit 10 to 20 balls with one club and average the distance out. 

Put a chart together. Next time you have a 100-yard shot, look at your chart and hit that club. Hopefully after awhile you won’t need the chart and your club selections will be more accurate. Most of us can’t hit the ball 300 yards. You can still compete with a sharp short game and know your yardages.