Junior Goal Setting in Golf: Why Time-Based Goals Can Be a Problem

Setting goals is a crucial part of any junior golfer’s development, but how those goals are structured can make all the difference. Many young players, coaches, and parents set time-based goals, such as achieving a certain handicap or winning a competition by a specific age. However, research and real-world experience suggest that these types of goals can actually be counterproductive for junior golfers.
In this blog, we’ll explore why time-based goals are problematic and how external pressures—from peers, parents, schools, and even county programs—can negatively impact a young golfer’s progress. We’ll also discuss key reasons why juniors might not reach their targets and offer a better approach to goal setting.
Why Time-Based Goals Can Be HarmfulMany young athletes are encouraged to set specific performance targets within a defined timeframe, such as reaching a scratch handicap by age 16 or making a county squad by the end of the season. While ambition is important, this rigid structure can create unnecessary pressure and hinder long-term development.
1. The Pressure from Parents, Peers, and OrganizationsJunior golfers often face significant pressure from multiple sources, including parents, coaches, and peers. Studies show that external pressure negatively impacts youth sports performance and mental well-being. A 2019 study published in the Journal of Applied Sport Psychology found that "athletes who experience high levels of parental pressure report increased anxiety and decreased enjoyment in their sport." When young golfers feel they must meet a target by a certain date, they may develop fear of failure, leading to burnout or disengagement.
2. The Role of Growth Spurts and Physical DevelopmentUnlike adult golfers, juniors are still growing. Physical changes, such as growth spurts, can dramatically affect coordination, balance, and swing mechanics. Research from the American Journal of Sports Science highlights that "adolescent growth spurts can temporarily disrupt motor control, affecting athletic performance in skill-based sports." This means a player who was excelling at 13 may struggle at 15—not because of a lack of effort but due to natural changes in their body.
If a young golfer is chasing a time-based goal, they may become frustrated when their performance dips during growth phases. A better approach would be to focus on speed training during these phases of peak height velocity as its a window for speed development.  Non performance goals at these times can also be used, eg, play a new course, watch a live golf event etc.
3. School, Other Sports, and Life BalanceGolf is a demanding sport, but junior players also have to balance school commitments, exams, social lives, and other sports. Many elite junior golfers also play football, rugby, or tennis, which can take up training time. A study from The British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that "multisport participation in youth athletes leads to better overall athletic development and reduces burnout." However, time-based goals in golf often fail to account for these outside commitments.
When a young golfer struggles to meet a set deadline because of school or other activities, they may feel like they are failing—even when they are actually progressing well in skill and understanding of the game.
4. Training Time and OpportunityNot all juniors have the same access to coaching, facilities, and practice time. A player in a rural area might struggle to get as much coaching as someone in a golfing academy. A 2021 Sport England report found that "disparities in access to training environments significantly affect youth performance outcomes across different sports."
Instead of measuring success by a strict timeline, juniors should focus on process-based goals—measuring. This could range from technical changes that produce improved trackman data or even body motion data. This will influence ball flight that can also be measured. 
A Better Approach: Process-Based GoalsRather than setting rigid time-based goals, junior golfers should focus on process-oriented goals that emphasise skill development, growth mindset, and long-term progress.
These types of goals reduce pressure while encouraging long-term improvement. When success is measured by effort and growth rather than time-sensitive achievements, junior golfers are more likely to stay engaged, enjoy the game, and ultimately reach their full potential. (Note: there is no measurement for potential, nobody knows. If you hear "they've got potential!" maybe best to avoid)
Final ThoughtsWhile ambition and motivation are essential in junior golf, rigid time-based goals can do more harm than good. Young players develop at different rates, and external factors like growth spurts, schooling, and limited practice time can impact their journey. By shifting the focus to process-based goals, growth mindset and long term development, we can create a more supportive and sustainable path for young golfers to thrive.
If you're a parent, coach, or junior golfer, consider setting goals that prioritise skill development, how to learn / train or even social development, not just a specific handicap or ranking by a certain age. Success in golf is a marathon, not a sprint, and the most successful players are those who develop a love for the game and a commitment to lifelong improvement.